Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month residing in London. Though this period may seem brief, I’ve acquired some insights. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing options alongside varied communities. Students have numerous selections available to them. Student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore future living arrangements online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest to find a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near main attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation between the different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to stroll over short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach locations beyond the Underground network, extending into areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses significant attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to mingle with classmates from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would be more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies expedites running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite complex. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural identity, providing a range of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek similarities to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community, showcasing Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean presence and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London depend on your preferences and requirements. As you embark on the hunt for a new home in London, cherish the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.