Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe is not extensive, I have gathered some knowledge. London is a dynamic city, presenting a myriad of housing options and lively neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of alternatives available, such as student residences and private accommodations that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, considering that inter-zonal commutes can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone transportation on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each railway company. The significant attractions in central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably lowered our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the opportunity to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is less probable in privately rented properties.
Staying close to grocery stores was important for me. Notable supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near indispensable stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. While seeking a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.