Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might seem like a brief period, I’ve gleaned quite a bit during this journey. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its wide-ranging housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Both university accommodation and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective rentals online, complete with details on amenities and distances to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I targeted renting a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the core. London features an exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenditures since moving between zones can incur costs as high as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, extending into areas outside central London. Travel costs for inter-zone journeys on these services differ depending on distance and the specific fare policies of each train operator. The high living expenses near Central London’s main attractions are noteworthy. Thankfully, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a feat that would have been more challenging through private apartments.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Accessibility to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for running errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, creating a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London yearn for a touch of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and flourishing music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End stands as a bustling hub featuring countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are just a few examples of the vibrant community landscapes.
The optimal living areas in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, embrace the variety and wealth of its housing selections, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.