Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this time frame may not seem long, I have gained various insights. London is an energetic city, renowned for its eclectic housing choices and vibrant communities. Students have an array of alternatives available to them. Both university accommodation and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can readily arrange viewings of apartments, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential housing online, including the amenities available and their closeness to public transport.
During my search for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London boasts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was able to attend university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, considerably lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a connection to their home countries. Southall in West London has a vibrant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and excitement this exceptional city has to offer.