Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Although my time here has been relatively short, I’ve gained some perspectives along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both student accommodations and private rentals come equipped with features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio units, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore possible living spaces online, detailing the amenities available and the distance to public transport.
During my hunt for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hubs, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes moving around and traveling between different zones easy. I aimed to lower my travel expenses, as trips across zones could cost up to £5.25 per day. Instead of taking buses or the tube for short distances, I chose to walk. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central city. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare rules of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university has considerably lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging to find in private housing.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of familiarity reflecting their home countries. Southall in West London is known for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and shops for traditional attire. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. As you search for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.