Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may seem like a brief period, I have gained significant insight. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students have abundant alternatives available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective rentals online, including features and closeness to public transit.
During my search for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground system, covering regions beyond central London. Costs for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs around Central London’s main attractions are significant. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to split a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds within the same age group, a blend that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural scenery, providing a vibrant mix of diverse localities. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home country. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing choices, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.