Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have accumulated valuable experiences during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its dynamic neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer a variety of features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and flatshares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore possible accommodations online, along with the facilities they provide and their distance to public transport.
In my quest for a place to live, I aspired to rent a room in Central London to be nearer to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes getting around and traveling between zones simple. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel costs, as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend further than the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Central London presents major sights, resulting in higher living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s often more difficult to find in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough choice. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a lively hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The prime areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When exploring new housing in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, discover cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.