Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve derived some valuable observations. London is an energetic metropolis, not just because of its extensive selection of housing alternatives but also due to its varied communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Various student accommodations and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential residences online, reviewing available amenities, and determining closeness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, provides seamless navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenditures since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The expense of living in Central London is elevated due to the abundance of major attractions. Luckily, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination less common in private residences.
The importance of living close to grocery outlets was paramount for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time for errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play an integral role in its cultural fabric, providing a diverse range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the familiarity of their home countries. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling locale with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are dependent on individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.