Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months isn’t an extensive duration, I’ve gathered various insights throughout this time. London is a dynamic city, presenting a wide range of housing options and active communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, highlighting the amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most centralized. London features a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of the operating train companies. The presence of Central London’s major attractions contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I had a friend attending university with me, and we decided to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and within the same age group, a blend that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the vibrant West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.