Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an array of choices available. Both student residences and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodation online, showcasing amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my pursuit of a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made travelling to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, covering areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these lines vary according to distance and the pricing system of each train provider. Central London is home to major tourist spots, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I was going to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate housing to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for familiarity with their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional fashion outlets. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant precinct with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.