Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have acquired valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students find it convenient to schedule apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, including facilities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transportation network, which comprises the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies commuting and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel fees can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar ages, which is often harder to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves a lot of time on tasks, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a taste of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples showcase just a few of the community neighborhoods available.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.