Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained extensive insights throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, not solely due to its varied housing options but also its dynamic communities. Students are met with a plethora of choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, including details on amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major 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 features an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to diminish travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys could cost up to £5.25 each day. Consequently, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have considerably lowered university travel expenses. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel with these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure of different train operators. The high living costs around Central London’s major attractions can be daunting. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I had a preference for intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s often harder to come by in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy feat. London’s diverse communities play a crucial role in its cultural essence, offering a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the comfort of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic hub filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.