Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although it’s not a lengthy time frame, it has been quite illuminating. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing alternatives and lively communities. Students have an array of options available, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to discover potential accommodations online, featuring details about amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central ones. London’s outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for seamless commuting and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the city center, with fares fluctuating based on distance and train operating company pricing structures. The costs of living in Central London’s prime attractions are elevated. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been harder through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland, are prevalent. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time during errands, particularly in exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting choice. London’s diverse ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, showcasing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their origins in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.