Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of alternatives available, as both student residences and private accommodations provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, including the available amenities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has a remarkable transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I specifically wanted to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fare charges for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare scheme of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less attainable through private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, providing a vibrant mixture of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this incredible city.