Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its assorted housing alternatives but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a wide array of options available. Both student residences and private lodging offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, review facilities, and evaluate their distance from public transportation.
While I sought a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes traveling between zones simple. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services connect to areas beyond the Underground to zones outside central London. Fares for interzone travel on these services vary by distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The high cost of living in Central London is influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings, anticipating meeting peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination less common in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near vital shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional dress shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, thrives with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.