Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While it may seem brief, I have garnered several perspectives during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not just for its myriad of housing options but also for its rich communities. Students are presented with a wealth of choices. Both educational housing and private rentals include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students check out potential lodgings online, along with the available amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London in order to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement and travel among zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Living expenses in Central London are considerably high due to prominent attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly cut down on rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside lower-cost options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to important stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time for errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighbourhood presents its own challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, offering a mosaic of varied neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of connection to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and dynamism of this extraordinary city.