Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not seem extensive, this period has afforded me valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis with a plethora of housing choices and lively communities. Students have an array of options including student residences and private accommodations, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and transit between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily, opting instead to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. Pricing for these services varies according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The significant living costs in Central London owing to its major attractions can be offset by sharing a room with a friend while attending university, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student residences to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-efficient, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a mix of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of familiarity from their home countries right here in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population with various Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, buzzes with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are only a few illustrations of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and demands. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.