Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive duration, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide array of housing choices but also by its multicultural communities. Students have abundant options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom support international students in exploring their prospective homes online, verifying amenities, and evaluating distances to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an exceptional transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for seamless navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have contributed to reducing university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The cost of living in Central London is high due to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Most international students in London look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a lively hub with countless Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural events. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The best regions to inhabit in London essentially rely on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.