Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this duration might seem brief, I have acquired some perspectives along the way. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, including features and transportation access.
In my quest for accommodation, I looked for a room to rent in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an excellent public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse the city and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made university commutes much more budget-friendly. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Living costs are elevated due to the plethora of major attractions in Central London. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share accommodation, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their homelands. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, supermarkets, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and its thriving music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and variety of its housing options, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and excitement this exceptional city has to offer.