Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a lengthy duration, I’ve gathered various observations throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its range of housing alternatives but also for its varied communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodging offer possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private rooms, shared accommodations, and studio flats. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing options online, including amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises 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, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university trips more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and pricing structures of each train company. The major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly lower our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial shops, including supermarkets and pharmacies, saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a vibrant enclave filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best locations for living in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.