Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this period may seem brief, I have acquired substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned for its variety of living arrangements as well as its communities. Students find a plethora of options available at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective homes online, verify amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London’s transport network, comprising buses, trains, and the underground (tube), allows for straightforward movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zone fares can reach £5.25 per day. I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for these transport options fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The living expenses in Central London are high due to the abundance of major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodations, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a feature that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retailers, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, creating diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a considerable South Asian population, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Additionally, Chinatown in the West End features an array of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These serve as examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London largely depend on personal preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, one should embrace the diversity and wealth of housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.