Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired several observations throughout this time. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its extensive array of accommodation options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals provide various alternatives including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, along with details on amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s robust transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between different zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure set by each train operating company. The high living costs in Central London are driven by its prominent attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent expenditures. I preferred student accommodations affiliated with the college, hoping to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is typically more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, living near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a difficult task. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a sense of familiarity with their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.