Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can promptly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to assess potential living spaces online, including features and closeness to public transport.
In my quest to find a home, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to curb travel expenses since travelling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services link areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside downtown London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare system. Central London hosts numerous attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I started university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Access to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s diverse communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of various neighborhoods. A number of international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and necessities. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the wealth and diversity of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.