Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I’ve picked up a few insights. London is a lively metropolis, recognized for its varied housing options and communities. Students have numerous alternatives available to them, with both student accommodation and private housing presenting choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective lodgings online, complete with amenities and close proximity to public transport.
As I hunted for a place to stay, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social gathering spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize commuting costs since traveling between zones can be as much as £5.25 per day, so I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London presents major attractions, contributing to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I was able to attend university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly cut our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private housing.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for familiarity with their homeland. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its living options, immerse yourself in cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.