Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not be a long duration, I have gathered some experiences. London is a dynamic city, known not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have many alternatives available. Both student lodgings and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodations, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an excellent transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made university transportation more budget-friendly. Besides, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The major attractions in Central London add to the high cost of living. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to split a room, considerably lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less common in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was important to me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during revision periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of different neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave featuring numerous Chinese eateries, retail stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best places to live in London are subject to personal preferences and requirements. When exploring housing options in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodations, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.