Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a vast stretch of time, I have gathered some perspectives throughout this duration. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its myriad of housing choices but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options to consider. Both student residences and private rentals offer various amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, including amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, vibrant social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London features an exceptional public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to maneuver and travel between zones. To manage travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel may cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare scheme. The main attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op exist alongside budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, especially during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiar elements from their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new place to stay, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.