Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration may not be extensive, I’ve gleaned some valuable insights. London is a dynamic city, offering not just a wide array of housing options but also a rich mix of communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private housing offer alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily set up viewings for apartments, while international learners can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible homes online, assess available facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
As I searched for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, nightlife, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London features a robust transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made traveling to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, stretching into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Major landmarks in central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us save significantly on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less probable in privately rented properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies within reach streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural vibrancy, presenting a mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community, offering Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area rich with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s varied accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.