Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long duration, I have gained substantial knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, both shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can investigate potential living spaces online through websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, reviewing amenities and transport connections.
In my quest for housing, I was focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most centralized. London’s superb transport infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates seamless navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 each day, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, serving areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and train operators’ fare models. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, going to university alongside a friend allowed us to split a room, which greatly decreased the rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and comparable age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to discover in private homes.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines time spent on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, featuring a range of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students search for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located 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 instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.