Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it’s not a long time, I’ve gathered some experiences. London is a dynamic city, presenting a multitude of housing choices and lively communities. Students are offered a range of options. Both student residences and private lodgings feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential homes online, evaluating facilities, and checking proximity to transit options.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is split into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can accumulate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, addressing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us significantly lower our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is harder to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood is complicated. London’s varied ethnic communities are central to its cultural identity, creating diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.