Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem long, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing a broad array of housing choices and multicultural neighborhoods. Students have numerous options at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studios, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective living spaces online, along with details about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to live, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system into outer zones, with ticket prices varying with distance and train company pricing policies. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to higher living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which considerably cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate residences to connect with peers from various backgrounds within the same age bracket, a mix that is difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having nearby essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on shopping, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are central to its cultural landscape, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, found in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.