Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of my stay in London, I’ve gathered some perspectives, despite it being a brief duration. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its various housing options but also for its thriving communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing provide facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. My aim was to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. However, oyster card alternatives have eased the financial burden of university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside Central London. Inter-zone travel fares on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The presence of iconic attractions in Central London leads to higher living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which substantially cut down rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, something that is often less achievable in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural landscape, providing a wealth of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, found in the bustling West End, serves as a vibrant hub featuring Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness of available accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.