Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months living in London. Although this duration is not particularly long, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an array of housing options and dynamic communities. Students enjoy multiple alternatives readily available, such as student residences and private lodgings including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while international students may access websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and determine proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to find a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is arranged into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which enables straightforward movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 each day, so I decided to walk shorter distances rather than take public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside of the Underground system, covering regions beyond central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each rail company. The high cost of living near Central London’s popular attractions can be a challenge. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination less common in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is not straightforward. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness of the city’s housing opportunities, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement this amazing city has to offer.