Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long duration, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a variety of housing options and lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while those from abroad can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential residences online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport facilities.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and traveling across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 daily, I opted for walking short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. The Oyster card system has made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the Underground network, reaching out to zones outside central London, with ticket prices fluctuating based on distance and fare structures of different train companies. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to higher living costs. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend during university helped us significantly lower our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds within the same age group, which is often more difficult to achieve through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural identity, providing a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End showcases various Chinese restaurants, retail stores, and cultural events. These are illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home, embrace the city’s varied accommodation alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.