Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it’s not an extended duration, I’ve gathered a few insights. London is a dynamic city, offering not just a variety of living arrangements but also vibrant communities. Students find numerous options readily available. Both student housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, examine amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
During my search for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses, as crossing zones can lead to daily costs of up to £5.25, so I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, extending into zones outside the central region. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to split a room, leading to significant rental savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and a similar age group, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a connection to their home culture. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to live in London hinge on your personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.