Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I finished a nine-month stay in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gained quite a lot of experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering not only various housing options but also rich community diversity. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible accommodations online, highlighting amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my search for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a highly efficient public transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement across the zones. To minimize travel expenses—as inter-zone transit can reach £5.25 daily—I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have streamlined university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of individual train companies. Living expenses in Central London can be steep due to its major attractions. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to socialize with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something harder to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time during errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is no simple task. The diverse ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural essence, weaving a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for the comfort of their home country’s culture while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocers, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. The vibrant Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate just a few of the neighborhood communities.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, take the opportunity to experience the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrills of this extraordinary city.