Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period seems brief, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore potential housing online, review facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting could total as much as £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London, known for its major attractions, comes with high living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups, which is harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, offering a rich assortment of diverse localities. Many international students in London look for connections to their home nations. Southall, located in West London, has a considerable South Asian presence, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of neighborhood communities.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.