Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve garnered various insights throughout this time. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a multitude of housing selections and dynamic communities. Students find themselves with a plethora of options at their disposal, including student housing and private accommodations featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to check out possible living spaces online, along with details of amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a dwelling, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain in close proximity to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London prides itself on a stellar transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make navigating and commuting between zones effortless. To minimize travel expenses, which can escalate to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal travel, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the core of London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a companion permitted us to share a room, markedly lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more difficult to find in private lodgings.
Having grocery stores nearby was crucial for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, offering a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, welcome the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.