Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have gathered various insights during this time. London is an energetic metropolis, offering not only a range of housing opportunities but also dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations present multiple choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their future living spaces online, including details about amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between the zones. I wanted to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to stroll short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Fortunately, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The presence of major attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend permitted us to share a room, greatly lowering the rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination less commonly found in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, especially during exam sessions.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural identity, providing a vibrant mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London crave the comfort of their home country’s environment. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.