Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem short, I’ve gained valuable observations. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its wide-ranging housing options but also for its multicultural population. Students enjoy an array of choices. Both campus accommodation and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective housing online, evaluate facilities, and determine proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London’s transport network, including the subway (tube), buses, and trains, allows for seamless movement and travel across zones. I wanted to keep travel expenses low since traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground routes, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these routes differ depending on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The high demand for access to Central London’s attractions drives living expenses up. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate housing to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is often more challenging in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common chain supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The diverse ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a rich array of unique districts. Many international students in London prefer a sense of familiarity with their native cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. In the vibrant West End of London, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most favorable areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.