Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extended duration, I have gained substantial knowledge. London is a bustling city, presenting a wide range of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have plenty of options available. Both student accommodation and private housing offer different possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential residences online, review facilities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to significant attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commutes to the university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground system to areas outside central London, with prices varying according to distance and the fare structure of the respective train operators. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more elusive in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is especially handy during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural richness, showcasing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their native cultures while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and variety of its housing options, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.