Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of life in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not just by its varied housing options but also by its vibrant communities. Students enjoy a plethora of choices readily available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective living spaces online, verify amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
In my quest for a room, I aimed to secure accommodation in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s remarkable transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and commuting between zones. I opted to walk short distances to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. Nonetheless, oyster card choices have rendered commutes to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Tube system, serving regions outside the city center. The costs for these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s pricing model. The high living expenses in Central London are attributable to its numerous attractions. Fortunately, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, greatly lessening our rental burden. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.