Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering

Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may be a short span, I’ve acquired several observations. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not just by its range of housing alternatives but also by its multicultural populations. Students have an array of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living arrangements online, review amenities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.

During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between the zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as crossing zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, connecting to areas outside of central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was at university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating connections with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a diversity less likely found in private rentals.

Being near grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand running, especially during exam periods.

Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are an essential component of its cultural landscape, creating a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with an abundance of Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of community hubs.

The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.

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