Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have garnered several insights. London is a lively metropolis, providing a variety of housing choices and communities. Students have a wide range of options, from student residences to private housing, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, as well as studio flats and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and find nearby public transport connections.
When I was looking for accommodation, my preference was a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented 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, facilitating easy travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel may cost as much as £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel can vary based on distance and the fare structure of different train companies. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably lowered rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is more challenging with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was important to me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for elements of their home countries in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural events. These serve as illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to live in London vary based on personal interests and necessities. When seeking a new place to call home, embrace London’s varied housing options, delve into cultural communities, and relish the city’s convenience and vibrancy.