Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Though it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve acquired some understanding. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals present alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for flats, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for suitable accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to maintain proximity to key landmarks, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones deemed the most central. London features an exceptional public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal travel could amount to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made trips to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for journeys between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The high costs of living in Central London are influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is more challenging to locate in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam time.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of unique neighborhoods. Many international students in London gravitate toward familiarity with their native countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant quarter with myriad Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.