Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve accumulated some valuable experiences. London stands out as a vibrant metropolitan area, not only for its range of housing options but also for its rich mix of communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily book viewings for apartments, whilst international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine potential housing options online, review available facilities, and evaluate the proximity to transport services.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the innermost zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transit network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigating and traveling between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones could cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk for shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the underground system, extending to zones beyond Central London. The fare for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates based on distance and each train company’s fare policy. The high cost of living in Central London is impacted by its main attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, cutting down rent significantly. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and age ranges, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Access to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home culture while in London. For instance, Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These exemplify just a few of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.