Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months living in London. Although it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained valuable experiences throughout this time. London is an energetic city, characterized not just by its wide range of housing options but also by its multicultural population. Students have plenty of choices to consider. Both student accommodations and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, including descriptions of the amenities and their location relative to public transport.
In my housing hunt, I was keen on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to move around and travel across zones. I aimed to limit transport expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting for university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central parts of London. Prices for inter-zone journeys on these services differ depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering the rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse cultures and similar age groups, a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be quite difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students search for connections to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of vibrant community neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.