Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months living in London. While it’s not a long duration, I have gathered several observations during my stay. London is a vibrant metropolis, enriched not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its eclectic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both university residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily coordinate apartment viewings, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential accommodations remotely, evaluate the facilities, and consider the distance to public transport.
While seeking my residence, my goal was to locate a room for rent in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zone fares can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I decided to walk short distances rather than utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, accessing areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The main attractions in central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I preferred accommodations offered to students from various institutions to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies accelerates errand completion, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich weave of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, houses a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music culture. Chinatown, settled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent only a handful of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.