Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I have gathered valuable knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a multitude of housing alternatives and varied communities. Students are afforded numerous options. Both student residences and private rentals feature a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, verify available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to 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 offers a superior transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I chose to walk shorter distances to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The central area’s major attractions contribute to higher living expenses. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is less attainable in private properties.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite daunting. The city’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, comprises a large South Asian community filled with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the West End of London, is a vibrant area boasting numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.