Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge throughout these months. London is a bustling metropolis, featuring a variety of housing types and dynamic communities. Students have myriad options, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can discover future housing online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, evaluating amenities and access to public transit.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to lease a room in Central London for convenient access to major sights, social gathering spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to minimize commuting expenses, as traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. However, options with an Oyster card have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas beyond central London. Fare prices vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with others from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend more difficult to encounter in private housing.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural landscape, presenting a range of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London hinge on personal preferences and needs. When looking for a new abode, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of London’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.