Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have accumulated various insights throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing an extensive range of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices, including student residences and private rentals with features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, evaluate available amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
In my search for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London for easy access to key attractions, lively social areas, and Imperial’s campus. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach as high as £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, substantially lowering our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for connections to their home cultures while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its rental choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.