Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive period, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant city, known not only for its myriad accommodation choices but also for its rich mix of communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student housing and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom let international students explore their future lodgings online, check available amenities, and assess proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling easy navigation and travel between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend coverage beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, which contributes to higher living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly reducing our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being in close vicinity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting various neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence, welcome London’s diverse accommodation opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.