Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, not solely for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including features and accessibility to public transport.
While searching for housing, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my transport expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London presents significant attractions, resulting in high living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of connection to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, welcome the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.