Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this time frame isn’t extensive, I have accumulated various observations. London is an energetic city that presents a multitude of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private accommodations feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living spaces online, review available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
While searching for a residence, I prioritized securing a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized 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, which makes moving around and traveling between zones straightforward. To reduce travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are counterbalanced by its attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and greatly lessen our rent burdens. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery shops was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical selections like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite daunting. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, providing a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiar cultural elements while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The perfect places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new living space in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.