Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, celebrated not only for its various housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a multitude of selections available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and determine closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near principal attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and inter-zone travel simple. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as moving between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commutes to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structures of different train providers. The expenses associated with living in central London are high due to its renowned attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples showcasing community neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.