Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a significant duration, I’ve gathered some valuable experiences. London is a bustling metropolis, not just due to its array of housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student residences and private housing present various choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, detailing amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London for its proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as crossing zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Still, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system into areas outside central London. Travel fares across zones differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lessened our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, something that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Having nearby grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural legacy, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional fashion boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are just a few examples of community-rich areas.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London are influenced by personal interests and requirements. When embarking on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.