Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have gained a considerable amount of insight. London is a dynamic metropolis, known not only for its wide range of living options but also for its eclectic communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Student residences and individual accommodations provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in browsing potential lodgings online, assessing amenities, and identifying nearby public transport networks.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transportation system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services surpass the Underground network, accessing areas beyond central London. Fares for these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing model of each train operator. The living expenses around Central London’s key attractions tend to be high. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, enabling us to share a room and significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural richness, creating a vibrant mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students desire a taste of home while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. As you embark on your search for new accommodations in London, embrace the cultural diversity and abundance of housing options, explore the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vitality of this extraordinary city.