Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though this time frame isn’t particularly long, I’ve accumulated some valuable observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its myriad housing options but also for the various communities that make it their home. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide several options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential residences online, complete with details about amenities and their location relative to public transportation.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to find a room to rent in Central London to be near major sights, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which streamline navigation and travel between different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can amount to up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, options for an oyster card have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are driven by its primary attractions. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which considerably lowered rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives encompass Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in poses a challenge. London’s various ethnic communities are essential to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich selection of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the comfort of their native countries. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music environment. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London greatly rely on personal interests and requirements. When you embark on your quest for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the accessibility and excitement of this extraordinary city.