Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months residing in London. Although this duration might appear brief, I have gathered valuable insights in this period. London is a vibrant city, not only with its range of housing choices but also its multicultural communities. Students have an array of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential housing online, evaluate available amenities, and determine proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social activity zones, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a robust transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since the daily inter-zonal fare can amount to £5.25. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have improved the affordability of university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I had the advantage of attending university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London largely rely on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace its diverse housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.