Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this timeframe may seem brief, I have garnered several observations throughout this experience. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its extensive array of housing alternatives but also because of its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private housing offer options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, individual and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, including information about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel among the zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made journeys to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside the central city. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare arrangements of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to the elevated cost of living. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly alleviated our rent burden. I preferred intercollegiate housing, as it offered the opportunity to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural makeup, providing a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian populace, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with multiple Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are only a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The prime locations to live in London depend significantly on personal preferences and necessities. When embarking on the search for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.