Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve acquired several insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its plethora of housing choices but also for its varied communities. Students have a multitude of options available. Both student residences and private accommodations provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, showing amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an excellent public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and move between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I was at university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and a similar age group, which is more challenging to find in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home country while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on individual interests and needs. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.