Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I’ve gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its varied housing alternatives but also for its multicultural communities. Students have numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private residences provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can seamlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to virtually explore their future lodgings online, complete with amenities and accessibility to public transport.
When I was looking for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London boasts major attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent expenses. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on chores, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, 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 core of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.