Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t a long time frame, I’ve acquired some knowledge during this duration. London is a vibrant city, not just for its diverse housing options but also for the various communities that call it home. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer various configurations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, alongside the provided amenities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I targeted a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, servicing areas outside the central district. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare systems of each train company. Central London, home to major landmarks, contributes to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private accommodations.
It was important for me to live close to grocery stores. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic neighborhoods are vital to its cultural identity, providing a vibrant mix of diverse areas. Many international students look for a taste of their home country while living in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London boasts a prominent Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivals. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.