Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While nine months is not a long time frame, I’ve accumulated some knowledge throughout this period. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its varied housing possibilities but also its energetic communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private residences offer numerous choices such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing options online, evaluate available amenities, and consider accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key destinations, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to lessen travel costs as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond Central London. The prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London is home to many key attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite challenging. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural landscape, providing a wonderfully diverse range of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a connection to their home country. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area packed with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The optimal locations for residing in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.