Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I have gained a fair amount of insight, even if it’s not an extensive duration. This city is vibrant, offering not only a range of housing options but also an array of communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives; both student housing and private rentals feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city comprises six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network—including the underground (tube), buses, and trains—supports convenient travel and navigation among the zones. To keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, I preferred walking short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more economical. Plus, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground, servicing areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services vary according to distance and individual train company fare structures. The high living costs in Central London can be attributed to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I shared accommodation with a friend while at university, drastically lowering our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential to me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s cultural fabric is deeply woven with its ethnic communities, creating a diverse array of neighbourhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas that reflect their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music environment. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, features a wealth of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural experiences. These are merely a handful of the community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diverse and rich accommodation landscape, investigate cultural hubs, and savor the vibrancy and allure of this extraordinary city.