Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem lengthy, I’ve acquired a few perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its variety of housing options but also for its wide-ranging communities. Students have numerous alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, including amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s extensive transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and journeying between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered university travel costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living expenses associated with Central London’s major attractions make things challenging. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s diverse ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, take in the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.