Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of living in London. While it hasn’t been an extensive period, I have gathered several observations in this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its wide array of housing options but also due to its multicultural communities. Students have a variety of selections available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily coordinate apartment tours, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transit.
During my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be close to major sites, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I wanted to keep travel costs down, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Living expenses in Central London are high due to the city’s major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging through private homes.
Living close to grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of the community neighborhoods available.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a place to live in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.