Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While it may appear to be a brief period, I’ve gained valuable perspectives throughout this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, driven not only by its array of housing choices but also by its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private flats offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential housing online, review the amenities available, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living arrangement, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city features an exceptional public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can incur costs up to £5.25 each day. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have enhanced the affordability of commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to the distance traveled and the fare structure specific to each train operating company. The prominent attractions in Central London add to the elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating a chance to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is less common in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being close to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a significant challenge. The ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich tapestry of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a slice of their home culture in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown, located at the heart of London’s West End, offers a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for residence in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When exploring new housing options in London, relish the diversity and richness of its accommodation selections, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.