Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might not sound like a lengthy period, I’ve acquired several perspectives during this duration. London is a vibrant metropolis, celebrated not only for its assorted housing alternatives but also for its multicultural populace. Students possess a wide array of choices available to them. Options for student housing and private rentals include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, verify amenities, and judge distances to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six circular zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for straightforward navigation and travel throughout the zones. I aimed to limit my travel expenses as inter-zone travel can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of relying on buses or the tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, connecting to areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living expenses in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly lower rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a demographic mix that’s more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, whereas budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s ethnic enclaves are pivotal to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, supermarkets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are simply a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.