Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering

Recently, I completed nine months in London. Although nine months may seem short, I have gained a wealth of knowledge during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its various housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite bathrooms and suites, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport options.

During my search for living arrangements, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an efficient transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it simple to travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Living costs in Central London tend to be high due to the presence of major attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly cutting down our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds and the same age, a mix that is harder to find in private housing.

Being near grocery stores was important to me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.

Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The diverse ethnic communities within London are an essential aspect of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Countless international students search for the comfort of their home culture in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples represent just a portion of the community-focused neighborhoods.

The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and preferences. As you embark on your housing search in London, celebrate the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.

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