Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months residing in London. Though nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a wide array of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have various choices available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals offer options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible accommodations online, including amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily, thus I opted to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground’s coverage, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the specific fare structure of each train operator. Central London is home to key attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to room together, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from different backgrounds and of similar age, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural diversity, offering various neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, has a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and stores selling traditional attire. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, features numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.