Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe might seem brief, I have gained some insights along the way. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of options available right outside their doors. Both student residences and private accommodations present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential housing online, review the facilities, and identify the closest public transport links.
During my search for a place to stay, I aimed for a room located in Central London to ensure proximity to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to move around and travel between zones. I tried to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. Walking short distances became my preference over taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major landmarks, which contributes to higher living expenses. Luckily, I was enrolling at university with a friend, so we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and the same age bracket—a combination less common in private properties.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are an integral aspect of its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a touch of familiarity from their home nations. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples highlight just a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London will depend on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.