Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear extensive, I’ve garnered several insights throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not only for its broad range of housing alternatives but also for its varied communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, including their features and distances to public transit.
In my quest for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The costs of living in central London are high due to its attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s harder to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural makeup, providing a vivid assortment of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a considerable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-based neighbourhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.