Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve acquired some valuable observations. London is a dynamic city that presents a broad range of housing possibilities and engaging communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
As I sought a living space, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay close 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’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as traveling between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services cover areas outside the Underground framework, extending beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the ticket structure of each train operator. The high living expenses surrounding Central London’s key attractions proved challenging. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly cut down our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with a diverse group of students of similar ages, a blend that is more difficult to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite a task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a connection to their native cultures while in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown in London’s West End is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.