Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago marked the completion of my nine-month stay in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained several insights throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its wide array of housing options but also thanks to its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student-specific housing and private rentals provide an assortment of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, review the amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my housing search, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a top-notch transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel costs as traversing between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I chose to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly lowered the cost of commutes related to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside central London. Fare costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operating company. The high living costs in Central London are attributable to the city’s numerous major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share an accommodation, which greatly lowered our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the chance to meet peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores within a short distance, including supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, contributing to a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek to connect with aspects of their home culture. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community along with a thriving music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural gatherings. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. While looking for a new home in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse and rich housing opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.