Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve acquired several insights throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, verify available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate easy movement and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university transits more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. Central London’s key attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities form a vital part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their native country. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with an array of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and delight in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.