Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached a milestone of nine months residing in London. Although this period is not extensive, I have acquired several insights along the way. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing a plethora of housing options and lively communities. Students enjoy a vast array of alternatives, including student accommodation and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible housing online, complete with available amenities and local public transportation connections.
In my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London possesses a superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigation and travel between zones convenient. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares could reach £5.25 daily. I chose to walk for shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, accessing zones outside central London, with ticket prices varying based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations for the opportunity to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a substantial decision. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for connections to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian presence with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When pursuing a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.