Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve acquired several insights. London is an energetic city, not only due to its array of accommodation choices but also because of its multicultural communities. Students enjoy numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential rentals online, including details about amenities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones may cost as much as £5.25 daily. Consequently, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced university commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones farther from central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. With many key attractions located in central London, living expenses tend to be high. Thankfully, I was studying at university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age range, a blend that is often difficult to find in private establishments.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was vital. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time during errands, especially around exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a critical role in its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a connection to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When in search of housing in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.