Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing opportunities but also by its varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing present features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, including details about amenities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel could reach up to £5.25 daily. I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. The prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train service provider. The high living expenses in Central London stem from its many prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university along with a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating meeting students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of connection to their home country in London. Southall in West London is populated by a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the central West End offers a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. As you seek a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.