Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed my first nine months in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated not only for its variety of housing options but for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student accommodation and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can swiftly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport links.
During my search for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, Oyster card options have made commuting to university less expensive. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train operator’s pricing structure. Living costs in Central London can be high due to its numerous attractions. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, so we shared a room, resulting in significant rental savings. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on shopping trips, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are an essential part of its cultural identity, presenting a range of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their homeland in London. Southall in West London features a large South Asian population, providing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the vibrant West End of London, is a bustling area with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and experience the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.