Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is a bustling metropolis, not just due to its varied living arrangements but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have abundant choices right at hand. Both student residences and private housing present a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, assess amenities, and find nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to get around and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fare can reach up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk for shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these trains vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. Central London features significant attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds around the same age, which is a blend more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire the comfort of their home country’s familiarity. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal places to live in London largely depend on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city offers.