Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. While it might seem brief, this period has been filled with discovery. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated not only for its wide variety of housing but also for its multicultural communities. Students enjoy a copious selection immediately available. Both university-provided housing and private rentals feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students residing in the area can easily schedule viewing appointments for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, evaluate available amenities, and gauge the distance to public transit.
In my quest for suitable lodgings, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transportation network including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless travel across the zones. I was keen on minimizing transportation expenses since commuting between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have improved the affordability of university travel. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, covering regions outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare systems. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend made it possible for us to share a room, significantly reducing our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is harder to achieve in private housing.
It was essential for me to live near grocery stores. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during periods of exams.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities represent a significant aspect of its cultural identity, providing a range of neighbourhoods. Many international students residing in London look for connections to their native cultures. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling locale filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.