Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might seem brief, I’ve gained several perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have ample options available to them. Both university residences and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in checking their potential living spaces online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating the proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structure of each rail operator. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores in close proximity was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connection to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located 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 illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this amazing city.