Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone in my stay in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve amassed some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and privately rented accommodations feature a range of selections including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible housing online, inspect available amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has a remarkable transit system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down my commuting costs as inter-zonal trips can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of using buses or the tube. However, the options provided by oyster cards have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to the distance and fare system of each train provider. The expenses of living in Central London are elevated due to its numerous main attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend during our university days significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and the same age group, a mixture that’s harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with lower-cost alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Choosing a locality is a tough choice. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich blend of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a slice of their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, is an animated area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home in London, revel in the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.