Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this is a brief period, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a broad array of housing choices and varied communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and transit across zones. I opted to walk shorter distances to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone journeys can cost up to £5.25 per day. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly cut down on rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from different backgrounds and a similar age bracket, a blend less commonly found in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural framework, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While looking for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.