Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period has been brief, I have gained several insights along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its extensive range of housing alternatives but also for its varied communities. Students enjoy a multitude of selections. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential accommodations online, review the amenities provided, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room rental in Central London to be near key sights, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies getting around and traveling between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal movement can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. Instead of using a bus or tube, I chose to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London can be attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly lowered our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a mix that is harder to discover in private properties.
It was vital for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a difficult choice. London’s ethnic groups play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London crave the comfort of their home country. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural niches, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.