Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this timeframe might not be extensive, I’ve gained several observations. London is a dynamic city, recognized not solely for its diverse housing options but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students have a wide array of alternatives available. Both student residences and private apartments come with choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential lodgings online, complete with information about amenities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I targeted renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a remarkable transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies traveling between zones. To minimize travel costs, considering that inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transportation. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting areas outside of central London. Rates for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, effectively lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is often harder to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Frequent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with less expensive options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to important shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnically diverse communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, presenting a colorful array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and energetic music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the city’s variety and richness in housing options, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.