Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London, I’ve gathered some observations. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have a myriad of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing provide numerous alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house sharings. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, vibrant social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling straightforward navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transit can amount to £5.25 daily. Instead of using the bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student residences to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of communities. Many international students yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community with its Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.