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 might seem short, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing opportunities but also by its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing present multiple choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to main 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’s superb transportation network, encompassing the tube, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation throughout the city and travel between different zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as moving between zones can incur daily costs of up to £5.25. Instead of using a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have considerably lowered the cost of commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the city center. Fares for inter-zonal travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operating company. Central London boasts prominent attractions, which elevates living expenses significantly. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably cut down on rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse cultures and similar age groups—a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are available at Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for links to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, found in the midst of London’s West End, is a lively hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.