Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London pulsates with life, not only due to its wide variety of housing options but also because of its multifaceted communities. Students find numerous alternatives right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can quickly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible living spaces online, inspect amenities, and locate access to nearby public transport.
During my search for a place, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across the zones. I aspired to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have resulted in cheaper university commutes. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside Central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing framework of each train operator. Central London features prominent attractions, which contributes to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, prompting us to decide on sharing a room, which led to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from varying backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a touch of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery establishments, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, presents a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These serve as just a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable locations to reside in London depend on one’s interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing selections, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.