Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s not a long duration, I have gleaned some valuable insights along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its eclectic communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student residences and private accommodations offer various choices such as ensuite and suite-style bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing options online, alongside details about amenities and public transportation links.
During my quest for a home, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a commendable public transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing and traveling between zones effortless. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel costs, as inter-zonal travel can lead to daily expenses of up to £5.25. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. However, Oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Plus, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central part of London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the pricing models of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Fortunately, I went to university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a diversity that is often harder to find in private properties.
Being situated near grocery stores was important to me. The common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, offering a vibrant mosaic of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a touch of familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and spirited music landscape. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community enclaves.
The ideal neighborhoods in London vary based on personal preferences and needs. In your search for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.