Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy time, I’ve picked up several observations during my stay. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students are presented with multiple alternatives. Both student residences and private rentals offer different options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, showcasing available amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodations, my objective was to find a room in Central London to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel and navigation across zones. My goal was to minimize commuting costs, as travel between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have considerably lowered university travel expenses. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living costs in Central London stem from its major attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to split a room, thus significantly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is tougher to find in privately owned places.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, which is especially helpful during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, is a dynamic area filled with various Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new place to live in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.