Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I celebrated nine months in London. Although this period might not seem extensive, I’ve gained valuable insights. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also its communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide an array of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review available features, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my search for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transportation infrastructure is excellent, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement and travel across zones. I wanted to minimize commuting expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London is rich in major attractions, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly cutting our rent costs. I was inclined toward intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich blend of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a taste of their home countries here. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a large South Asian community with Indian dining spots, grocery shops, and traditional clothing retailers. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling hub featuring an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.