Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, my experiences have been quite enlightening. London pulsates with life, offering not only a wide range of housing options but also dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both student housing and private lodgings feature amenities including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom equip international students with the ability to browse potential living spaces online, along with their features and accessibility to public transport.
During my search for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel across zones. I aimed to keep my travel expenses low since transit between zones could cost up to £5.25 per day. Instead of using buses or the tube, I chose to walk short distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, having a friend to attend university with allowed us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets— a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
It was essential for me to be near grocery stores. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines running errands, especially during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population with Indian dining, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, bustles with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to call home in London hinge on your interests and necessities. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and depth of its housing offerings, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.