Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. Although my time here is relatively short, I’ve gained some insights. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a variety of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students can explore numerous options, from student residences to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, common and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and discover public transport connections.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key sights, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to move around and transit between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones could incur charges of up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than depending on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university trips. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside the central part of the city. The prices for these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Living costs in Central London are elevated due to popular attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly lessen our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging with private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close access to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural landscape, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for aspects of familiarity from their homelands. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian populace featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, hosts numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.