Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it isn’t an extensive period, I’ve gained some insights. London is an energetic city, presenting a broad array of housing choices and varied communities. Students have numerous options available, including student residences and private housing with features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online, assess facilities, and find links to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s superb transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have reduced university commute costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its main attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
It was crucial for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, creating diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling quarter filled with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural activities. These serve as just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to dwell in London rely on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence, celebrate the diversity and richness of London’s housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.