Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve accumulated some valuable knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing options and multicultural environments. Students have an array of alternatives available, with both student accommodations and private rentals featuring options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six nested zones, with the first two being the most centrally located. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To keep travel expenses down, particularly since inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network into zones outside of central London, with pricing varying according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. While living in Central London incurs higher costs due to its iconic attractions, sharing a room with a friend while at university helped us save considerably on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is more challenging to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Picking a neighborhood can be quite a task. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural fabric, showcasing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, offering Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and immerse yourself in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.