Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While it isn’t a substantial duration, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students enjoy a multitude of alternatives. Both campus housing and privately rented spaces provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to check potential lodgings online, including their amenities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to diminish travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend their reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these transportation services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its prime attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies within reach saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a tough task. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural essence, presenting varied neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home nations within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community filled with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music landscape. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a vibrant area featuring Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to live in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and variety of housing choices, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.