Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this might not seem like a long time, I’ve gleaned some insights along the way. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its lively communities. Students can find a wealth of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present an array of options such as ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
During my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major tourist attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones comprising the most central areas. London offers an outstanding transport system, including the tube, buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation across the city and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can accumulate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare policies of each train operator. Central London houses prominent attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, substantially decreasing our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a demographic that would be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam sessions.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural landscape, contributing to a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall in West London accommodates a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music scene. Situated in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown serves as a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivals. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and variety of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.