Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I have obtained valuable insights in this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its array of housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have numerous selections at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, spreading into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The costs of living in Central London’s primary attractions are high. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a mix that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving for errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, offering a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few representations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence, celebrate the diversity and richness of London’s housing offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.