Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired several insights during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a broad range of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of alternatives available. Both student residences and private housing offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to explore potential living arrangements online, verify available features, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant sights, social spaces, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London presents an outstanding transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can hit £5.25 daily, I elected to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside central London, with fares varying by distance and train operator fare structures. The leading attractions in Central London result in elevated living costs. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while at university allowed us to lower our rent significantly. I preferred intercollegiate student residences to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural landscape, offering a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their native countries within London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
Choosing the ideal areas to live in London relies on personal interests and requirements. When pursuing a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing options, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.