Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I have acquired several observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, recognized not only for its varied housing opportunities but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including amenities and access to public transportation.
During my search for a living space, I aimed for a room to rent in Central London to be close to key landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is arranged in six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which allows for straightforward navigation between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operating company. Central London features major attractions, which contribute to higher living costs. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university provided significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and a similar age group, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a range of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and an energetic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few illustrations of neighborhood communities.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.