Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of living in London. While this may not seem like an extended time, I’ve gained various insights along the way. London is an energetic city, characterized by its wide range of housing options and dynamic communities. Students find themselves with ample choices available. Both university housing and private rentals provide a variety of selections, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to preview their prospective accommodations online, along with the facilities available and closeness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk for shorter distances rather than utilizing the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commuting more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structures of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a difficult choice. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, offering a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.