Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, abundant not only with a variety of housing choices but also with dynamic communities. Students have an array of options at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals comprise selections like ensuite bathrooms and suites, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective lodgings online, evaluate available facilities, and gauge their distance from public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground grid, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for these routes fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living expenses near Central London’s main attractions can be a concern. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging with private housing.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as groceries and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, contributing to a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a slice of their home culture in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian dining establishments, groceries, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End presents a plethora of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a place to call home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.