Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem like a considerable duration, the experiences I’ve had during this time have been enlightening. London is an energetic metropolis, recognized for its varied housing options and dynamic communities. Students can select from a wide range of accommodations, such as student residences and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas those from abroad can leverage platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate how close they are to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The transportation infrastructure in London, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it manageable to move around and travel between zones. To minimize traveling costs, which can amount to £5.25 per day for journeys between zones, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on public transport. Oyster card alternatives have contributed to making my commute to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside the central part of London. Prices for these services depend on distance and the pricing model of each train provider. The elevated living expenses in Central London are balanced by its many attractions. Thankfully, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly lowered my rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Having close access to grocery stores was vital for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on shopping trips, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. A considerable number of international students seek connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community-based neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the city’s varied housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.