Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this isn’t an extended period, I have gathered various insights in this time. London stands out as a vibrant city, presenting an extensive range of housing options and a mix of communities. Students have a plethora of selections available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living arrangements online, including their amenities and nearness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transit system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made university commuting more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each rail operator. The central area of London, with its numerous attractions, leads to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly lowering rent costs. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was important to me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood to call home is tough. The ethnic communities of London are pivotal to its cultural landscape, offering a rich assortment of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their home country within London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are but a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and needs. When on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.