Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t excessively long, I’ve garnered some valuable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wide array of options available. Both student residences and private housing provide different choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 daily. I preferred walking short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Fortunately, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structures of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students pursue a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian population, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End showcases a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.