Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of living in London. Although it isn’t an extensive timeframe, I have gathered some understanding. London is an energetic city, presenting an extensive range of housing alternatives and varied communities. Students have many selections available to them. Both shared student residences and private rentals feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living arrangements online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my search for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and commuting between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as journeys between zones can escalate to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major tourist attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private housing.
Being close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with lower-cost options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s varied ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown at the center of London’s West End is filled with a variety of Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for habitation in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.