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 duration is not extensive, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not just by its vast selection of housing options but also by its eclectic communities. Students can find numerous possibilities nearby. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide a variety of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to check out potential housing options online, along with the facilities they feature and their accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the particular fare structure of each train operating firm. Living in Central London, where major attractions are located, results in higher living expenses. Thankfully, I shared a room with a friend from university, allowing us to significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and of similar age, a combination harder to find in privately rented properties.
Being close to grocery outlets was essential for me. Familiar supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, with more budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essentials like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough task. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a myriad of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. While looking for new accommodation in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.