Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months residing in London. Although it isn’t a lengthy period, I have gathered some valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just due to its variety of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students can find numerous choices right at their fingertips. Student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, including features and distance to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigating and moving between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced university travel costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground jurisdiction, stretching into zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, considerably cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from diverse backgrounds of similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was crucial for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, providing varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homelands while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Located in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown offers an abundance of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.