Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. There are plenty of choices available for students. Both student residences and private rentals provide options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living arrangements online, check amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
As I looked for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between different zones. I wanted to minimize transportation expenses as inter-zonal trips can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk for shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have substantially reduced commuting costs for university trips. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching outlying zones. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was at university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of unique neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, explore cultural precincts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.