Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently crossed the nine-month milestone of residing in London, I have gathered several insights during this period. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students are presented with an abundance of choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer a range of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible living arrangements online, including available amenities and distance to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I targeted a room rental in Central London to remain near major tourist spots, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a fantastic transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones simple. Personally, I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal fares can be as high as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of individual train operators. The main attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly alleviated rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to encounter peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural framework, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London search for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian dining, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on a search for a new home in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and embrace the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.