Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not sound like a long time, I’ve gained several insights throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis that provides an extensive range of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. Students have countless alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I specifically sought to rent a room in Central London in order to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across these zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground coverage, encompassing areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the particular fare scheme of each train operator. The popularity of Central London’s major attractions leads to elevated living costs. Luckily, I studied alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s harder to find in private residences.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London are contingent upon personal preferences and needs. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.