Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have gathered several insights during this time. London is a vibrant city, recognized not only for its variety of living arrangements but also for its diverse communities. Students have a wealth of options at their disposal. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including details about amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is split into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, services like London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London hosts prominent attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural tapestry, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples represent just a few of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and needs. To discover a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and enjoy the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.