Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might appear brief, I’ve gathered valuable observations during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable for its varied housing choices as well as its rich cultural diversity. Students have a wide range of options available. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, including features and proximity to public transport.
In my endeavor to find accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay near prominent sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel between zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones could accumulate charges up to £5.25 daily. I made it a point to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commutes to the university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination harder to discover in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mix of various neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian demographic, offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new abode in London, take advantage of the city’s extensive housing choices, discover its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.