Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month of residing in London. Although nine months may not appear to be a long duration, I’ve acquired several observations throughout this period. London is a dynamic city, distinguished not only by its varied housing choices but also by its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing present various alternatives like ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared rooms, individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, along with details about amenities and access to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to popular attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central region. Fares for zone-to-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a colleague, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in privately owned properties.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Deciding on a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional fashion outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a buzzing area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.