Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve accumulated some observations throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its extensive range of housing choices but also because of its varied communities. Students enjoy a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer different selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to check potential housing options, explore available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an exceptional transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 a day, so I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zones. The fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London, being home to many key attractions, results in higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended the university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, thereby significantly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to live in London vary based on personal interests and necessities. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, take advantage of the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.