Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may seem short, I’ve gained various insights. London is a dynamic city, not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have plenty of choices at their fingertips, with options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares available in both student and private accommodations. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment tours, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and find nearby public transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first and second being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation throughout the city and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I opted for walking short distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced the cost of university journeys. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policies of each rail company. Living expenses in Central London are high due to its major attractions. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend from university, which substantially lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private properties.
Having grocery stores in proximity was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during the exam period.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of communal neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas to live in London are dictated by your interests and necessities. When looking for a new residence, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.