Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my stay in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve acquired considerable knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students are presented with a myriad of choices. Both student housing and private rentals provide various selections such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Resident students can conveniently schedule viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore their potential homes online, checking facilities and evaluating vicinity to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, accessing zones further from the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare framework of each train company. The high living expenses around Central London are driven by its major attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, which drastically reduced our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an arrangement harder to establish in private rentals.
For me, the location of grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. The ethnic communities in London contribute significantly to its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of connection to their home country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, with numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with many Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples illustrate just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to live in London will vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and variety of accommodation choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.