Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I concluded nine months of living in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I have gained valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its array of housing options but also for its myriad communities. Students can access numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to peruse future housing online, examine amenities, and access links to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the tube, buses, and trains, which facilitate easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can tally up to £5.25 daily. Instead of taking a bus or tube for short distances, I opted to walk. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made trips to university more affordable. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into outlying zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are largely due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us substantially reduce rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less commonly found in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is quite daunting. The ethnic communities in London contribute significantly to its cultural diversity, presenting various neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. To uncover a new home in London, embrace its diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.