Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration isn’t particularly lengthy, it has been quite enlightening. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not just by its vast selection of housing options but also by its multicultural populace. Students find themselves with countless choices available to them. Both communal living and private residences provide a variety of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom offer international students the chance to explore possible accommodations online, review the facilities, and evaluate their nearness to public transit.
During my hunt for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, entertainment spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel among zones. I aimed to cut down on commuting expenses, given that traveling between zones could cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made getting to the university more economical. Also, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each railway company. Central London’s key attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lessened our rent. I leaned towards inter-collegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities of London are crucial to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of cultural familiarity. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and needs. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.