Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not seem lengthy, I’ve gained some perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its varied housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house sharing. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible living spaces online, including details of the amenities provided and access to public transport.
During my search for accommodations, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigation and transit between zones straightforward. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as journeys across zones can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have greatly decreased commuting costs for university travel. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Charges for travel between zones on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing system of each train operator. The prevalence of major attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was fortunate to attend university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse districts. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London vary according to personal preferences and needs. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.