Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residence in London. Although nine months may not seem significant, I’ve gathered some understanding during this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, noteworthy not just for its plethora of housing choices, but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of options readily available. Both student lodgings and private rentals offer various arrangements including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible living spaces online, along with their amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room for rent in Central London to be near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across the zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made university travels more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend coverage beyond the Underground network, reaching zones situated outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare regulations of each train operating provider. Central London attracts many tourists, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, considerably cutting down on rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private housing.
It was essential for me to live near grocery outlets. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London prefer to find a sense of familiarity with their home country. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London rely on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.