Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy period, I have absorbed a lot. London is an energetic city, notable not only for its range of housing choices but also for its varied communities. Students are presented with countless options. Both student residences and private rentals feature alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment visits, whereas online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their potential homes digitally, check available facilities, and evaluate their distance from public transportation.
During my hunt for accommodations, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social areas, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London offers an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to traverse and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground’s reach, extending beyond central London. Fares for cross-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing policy of the train operator. The high living costs near Central London’s key attractions are notable. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the chance to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near basic stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be tough. The city’s diverse communities are key elements of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home culture in London. Southall, positioned in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population with Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London are shaped by personal interests and priorities. When embarking on a search for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.