Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Even though this duration isn’t lengthy, I have acquired several perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a vast selection of housing options and dynamic communities. Students can access a multitude of alternatives. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to examine prospective housing online, including amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for a place to live, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near primary 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 has a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, that simplifies movement and travel across zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses, as travel between zones can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground infrastructure, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in central London are influenced by the significant attractions in the area. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which drastically lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies alleviates the time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural identity, offering a rich array of unique neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for a slice of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the centre of London’s West End, is a bustling hub featuring an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.