Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired a few perspectives throughout this time. London is an energetic city, renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student housing and private rentals feature a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near primary attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have helped make university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these systems vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to mingle with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting choice. The ethnic communities in London play a critical role in its cultural landscape, presenting a colorful array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home nation. Southall, in West London, is home to a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London largely rely on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.