Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Though this period may seem brief, I’ve gathered valuable observations along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its extensive range of living arrangements but also its multicultural neighborhoods. Students find themselves with numerous options. Both student accommodations and private rentals present an array of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective homes online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my housing search, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making inter-zone navigation and travel seamless. Personally, I sought to minimize commuting costs since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s harder to come by in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting choice. London’s ethnic groups play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of home in London’s communities. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian demographic with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and depth of housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.