Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Though it is not a lengthy duration, I have acquired several observations during this period. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its range of housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer various choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment tours, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, along with their facilities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating the city and traveling between zones easier. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the fare systems of each train operator. Central London is home to significant tourist attractions, which contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, being at university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, considerably lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Having nearby grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies can save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital element of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for the comforts of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, houses a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.