Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though not a lengthy time frame, I have gleaned some knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, recognized for its varied housing selections and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing present an array of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can seamlessly organize apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a top-notch transport system, which includes the tube, buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To cut down on transit expenses, since inter-zonal fares can hit £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prime attractions in Central London are a contributing factor to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share accommodation, greatly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is trickier to find in private rentals.
Being close to 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 near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes errand time, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of various neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music vibe. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a vibrant area filled with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal places to live in London are influenced by personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.