Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy period, I’ve gained significant insights. London is an energetic city, providing a variety of housing options and dynamic communities. Students can choose from a wide array of options, including student residences and private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students may use platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, assess amenities, and locate nearby transport links.
In my housing search, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key sights, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones. To reduce travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal trips, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on public transit. Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, accessing areas outside of central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. While living expenses in Central London can be steep, I managed to considerably lower rent costs by sharing a room with a friend. I favored collegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is often scarce in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to fundamental shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is especially convenient during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood presents challenges. The ethnic communities in London contribute greatly to its cultural richness, marked by a wide variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students pursue a connection to their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are only a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London depend on your personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to live in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.