Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not be a lengthy period, I’ve gained valuable insights. London is a dynamic city, presenting a range of housing choices and lively communities. Students have various options, including student residences and private lodgings with ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and identify public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 a day, so I chose to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have notably reduced university commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing broader areas. Fares for inter-zone journeys vary based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The popularity of Central London’s attractions leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, resulting in significant rental savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with cheaper alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Picking a neighbourhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, offering various neighborhoods. Many international students seek comfort from their home countries. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in London’s West End showcases Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home, embrace London’s diverse housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the city’s accessibility and vibrancy.