Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. Though nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is a bustling city, recognized not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices readily available. Both student accommodations and private housing present a variety of alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently book viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and discover public transportation options.
In my quest for a living space, I targeted a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card choices have significantly reduced commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services service areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones farther from central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London is home to key attractions, which drives up living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a mix less common in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on chores, particularly during the exam period.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be complex. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students seek a sense of comfort reminiscent of their home nations in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.