Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this is not a long time, I have gathered some experiences. London is a bustling metropolis that presents a plethora of housing choices and varied communities. There are plenty of options available for students. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse possible accommodations online, highlighting amenities and their distance from public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 a day. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail routes extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for travel between zones on these services depend on the distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend permitted us to share accommodation, drastically lowering rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of a similar age, a blend that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to supermarkets was vital for me. Popular grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial establishments such as grocery stores and pharmacies helps save time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are essential to its cultural richness, creating a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students look to find a sense of familiarity to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian dining, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural occurrences. These are just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.