Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it might not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired several insights throughout this duration. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its range of housing choices but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both university housing and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
In my search for a dwelling, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to primary landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s public transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can climb up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside the core of London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, notably lowering our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and a similar age bracket, which might have been difficult with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mix of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The finest places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.