Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months living in London. Although it may not seem like an extended period, I have acquired a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a dynamic city, rich not only in its diverse housing opportunities but also in the communities residing within it. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can quickly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, review the amenities they provide, and their accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigating and traveling across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys could cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have resulted in more budget-friendly university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The high living costs attributed to central London’s prominent attractions made budgeting essential. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, considerably reducing our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is often more difficult with privately rented properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite complex. London’s ethnic communities play an integral role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country within London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and bustling music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a handful of the community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London hinge on your personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and wealth of its accommodation offers, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill offered by this extraordinary city.