Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have gained several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a multitude of housing choices and lively communities. Students are offered a wide range of options. Both student residences and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment visits, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, including available features and access to public transport.
During my housing hunt, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traveling and navigating between zones straightforward. I wanted to keep travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these modes fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of individual train operators. The high living costs in central London are due to its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, resulting in significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which might have been more difficult through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional dress shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in central London’s West End showcases many Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a few community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.