Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While not an extensive period, I’ve acquired various insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, showcasing not just an array of housing options but also a wide range of diverse communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Student accommodations and private housing offer options that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange to view apartments, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential living spaces online, verifying available amenities, and evaluating proximity to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London in order to remain close to major landmarks, entertainment zones, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network that encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling seamless movement and commuting between zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university less costly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for cross-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London stem from its numerous major attractions. Thankfully, being in university with a friend allowed us to share a room, thereby significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—a mix that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a daunting choice. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London search for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These examples highlight just a few of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London heavily depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.