Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I have acquired several insights. London is an energetic city, presenting an array of housing options and a variety of communities. Students can choose from numerous alternatives. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students in exploring potential homes online, verifying amenities, and determining accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zone. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The high cost of living in Central London is influenced by its major attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered the rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside less expensive options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Ease of access to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s diverse ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, centrally located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.