Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gathered some perspectives during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its diverse housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student housing and privately rented accommodations offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studios, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective housing online, review the amenities provided, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I set my sights on renting a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has a robust transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to move around and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, options with an oyster card have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, connecting with areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to higher living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to split a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizeable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new living space in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.