Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of living in London. While this period may not be long, I’ve accumulated some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic city, characterized by its varied housing options and vibrant communities. Students have a wealth of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom support international students in virtually surveying future lodgings, the available amenities, and their distance from public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, 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, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling straightforward travel and navigation between zones. Personally, I intended to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network into outer zones. Rates for these services differ based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The high demand for Central London’s popular attractions contributes to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lessened the rent burden. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from diverse cultures and similar ages, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London houses a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling locale filled with various Chinese restaurants, boutiques, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.