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 might not seem lengthy, I have gathered several insights during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings present diverse choices such as 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 enable international students to browse potential homes online, along with the amenities they provide and their distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traveling and commuting between zones a breeze. To economize on travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I typically chose to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail networks extend into regions outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond the city center. Ticket prices for inter-zone journeys on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. With Central London hosting major attractions, living expenses can be steep. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings, hoping to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time for errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a significant challenge. London’s ethnic communities form an integral aspect of its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their native culture in London. Southall in West London has a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.