Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period may seem brief, I’ve acquired some perspectives during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its multitude of living options but also for its varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer different alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, including the available amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London for proximity to major sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features a robust transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since traversing between zones can incur daily costs of up to £5.25. Instead of utilizing a bus or tube, I preferred to walk short distances. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs of Central London’s main attractions are notable. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we agreed to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies can save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood presents a considerable challenge. The ethnic communities of London form an essential component of its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for the comfort of their homeland within this city. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Located in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of the community neighborhoods available.
The most suitable areas for living in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When hunting for accommodations in London, appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.