Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing options but also its vibrant communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to browse prospective accommodations online, inspect amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these modes of transport fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The major attractions in Central London drive living costs upwards. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mingling less prevalent in private properties.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Choosing the right neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural architecture, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their native countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, houses a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music landscape. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a fraction of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable locations to live in London ultimately hinge on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.