Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I have acquired several insights throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied accommodation choices but also by its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals offer various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their future housing options online, including the amenities available and their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operating company. The cost of living near Central London’s attractions is relatively high. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that might have been more challenging to discover in private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op exist alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near important stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during the exam season.
Choosing a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s diverse communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, delivering a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students living in London seek the comfort of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of vibrant neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.