Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although this might not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not just for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. For students, numerous choices are available right outside their doors, with both student residences and private living options featuring amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover local public transport links.
During my search for a living arrangement, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach locations beyond the Underground network, extending into areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of the respective train companies. The high living costs in Central London stem from its numerous major attractions. Thankfully, sharing accommodation with a friend while at university allowed us to split rent costs significantly. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, creating a vibrant array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your individual interests and requirements. As you search for a new home in this city, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.