Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained significant insights. London is a vibrant city, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its rich communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, review amenities, and identify the closest public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core. London boasts an outstanding transportation system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to traverse and move between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day. Consequently, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs for university students. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is home to numerous major attractions, which contributes to the high cost of living. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, leading us to share a room, which greatly eased our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, looking to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; lower-cost options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies can save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a rich assortment of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London seek ties to their home countries. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for residing in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new place in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, discover the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.