Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve celebrated nine months of residing in London. While not an extensive period, it has been very educational. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not only for its varied living arrangements but also its communities. Students have countless options available to them. Both student dormitories and private rentals offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule viewings of apartments, and tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my housing search, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I sought to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys could reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made travelling to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas extending beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of Central London. The fares for inter-zone trips on these services vary depending on distance and the structure of each train operator’s fares. Central London is home to significant attractions, leading to higher living costs. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds in the same age range, a mix that is more challenging to discover in privately rented properties.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s multicultural communities form a key aspect of its cultural identity, creating diverse residential areas. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity from their home nation while in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is characterized by its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, presents an energetic hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These illustrate only a handful of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, venture into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this extraordinary city has to offer.