Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this isn’t a long duration, I’ve collected some valuable experiences throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, rich in its array of housing choices and its mix of communities. Students are presented with a variety of options. Both university housing and private rentals feature choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living arrangements, along with details on amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, entertainment spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers a robust transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to get around and travel between zones. My objective was to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground system, reaching areas beyond the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the ticket pricing of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, drastically lowering our rent costs. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s less probable in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students look for aspects of their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples represent just a fraction of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.