Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently completed nine months of my stay in London. While it may not be an extensive period, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a dynamic city, known not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both student residences and private lodgings provide an array of alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, showcasing available amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my intention was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major sights, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement throughout the zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card choices have made university journeys more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services differ based on the distance and pricing structure of each train operator. Central London features significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination times.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and bustling music culture. Chinatown, located in the very center of London’s West End, offers a plethora of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few representations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London will vary based on your interests and requirements. While on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.