Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not be an extensive period, I have gained some insights. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a wide variety of housing choices and lively community atmospheres. Students have an abundance of options available, with both student accommodations and private lodgings offering features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the central areas. London’s public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, thus I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London, with fares determined by distance and the specific train company’s pricing. The costs of living near Central London’s main attractions can be quite high. Fortunately, I shared a room with a friend while attending university, which significantly reduced my rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate housing to mingle with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be difficult. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London boasts a vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and an exciting music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, features a lively enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of vibrant communities.
The ideal areas to live in London depend on individual interests and preferences. While searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.