Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not be extensive, I’ve accumulated valuable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its varied housing possibilities but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student lodgings and private residences feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential residences online, evaluate amenities, and check proximity to public transport.
During my accommodation hunt, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services service areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policies of each train company. The living expenses in Central London are heightened due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in considerable rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age range, a combination that’s harder to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is quite challenging. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich variety of distinctive neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home culture within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian populace, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of communal neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.