Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of my stay in London. Although this may not be a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its communities. Students have numerous options right at their doorstep. Both university residences and private rentals provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, complete with details on facilities and transport links.
During my quest for housing, I aimed for a room in Central London to maintain proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances rather than utilize bus or tube services. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university students. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the city center. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing system of each operator. With numerous attractions in Central London, living expenses are elevated. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate housing to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s various ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, presenting diverse residential areas. Many international students seek an essence of their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, offers a host of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These examples represent just a portion of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. When embarking on your search for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.