Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of living in London. While this may not seem lengthy, I’ve discovered various insights in this time. London is an energetic metropolis, distinguished not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its eclectic communities. Students can capitalize on many choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings present features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and self-contained rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom provide international students the ability to browse potential living spaces online, including details on amenities and nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay close to prominent sights, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the primary and secondary zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and commuting between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services travel beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of Central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing model of each train operator. The high costs of living in Central London stem from its major attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university considerably cut our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate residences to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves significant time on chores, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community adorned with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London largely depend on individual preferences and requirements. When embarking on the hunt for a new residence in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, venture into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.