Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is an energetic city, not merely for its variety of housing options but also for its communities. Students have numerous choices available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential accommodations online, reviewing amenities, and locating the nearest public transport links.
As I searched for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services service areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London’s main attractions pose a challenge. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, considerably reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s less common in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the familiar ambiance of their home country in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples illustrate just a fraction of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.