Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its varied housing opportunities but also because of its dynamic communities. Students find an abundance of options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private accommodations come with a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can promptly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in browsing potential housing online, assessing amenities, and discovering nearby public transportation links.
In my quest for a living space, I set my sights on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centrally located. London features a remarkable transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can rack up to £5.25 daily. I preferred to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network into zones outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The high living costs around Central London’s main attractions can be daunting. Thankfully, I had a friend attending university alongside me, and we chose to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I was drawn to intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenging dilemma. London’s multicultural communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. The majority of international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling hub packed with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residency in London are determined by your own interests and requirements. As you search for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and abundance of housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.