Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have reached the milestone of nine months living in London. Although it isn’t a long duration, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic city that presents a diverse array of housing options and lively communities. Students have a wide range of selections available to them, including student residences and private lodgings featuring options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, showcasing amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my intention was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To reduce travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London, with fares varying according to distance and the pricing strategy of each train provider. The popularity of Central London’s attractions leads to elevated living costs. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us substantially lower rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations as they allowed me to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a feat that would have been harder to achieve with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural richness, creating a colorful array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to call home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, immerse yourself in cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.