Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of living in London. Although this period isn’t lengthy, I have acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, known not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential placements online, including the facilities available and closeness to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is separated into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London enjoys a robust transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I decided to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. 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 central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train company. The high living expenses in Central London are largely attributed to its major attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend at university has greatly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, which would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich tapestry of different neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek out elements of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic place filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of housing choices, explore cultural hubs, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.