Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have gleaned some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its numerous housing alternatives but also for its varied communities. Students can choose from an abundance of options. Student residences and private lodgings provide a range of accommodations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to preview their future homes online, check available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
As I searched for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for easy access to major attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I aimed to cut down on commuting costs, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system into outer zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. While Central London has numerous attractions, the cost of living is steep. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private housing.
It was essential for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich blend of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London prefer to find a sense of familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most desirable places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. As you seek a new home in London, immerse yourself in the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.