Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this might not be an extensive period, I have gathered a few observations during this time. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its assorted housing options but also by its multicultural communities. There are plenty of choices available for students. Both university accommodations and private rentals offer various amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while international students can explore potential living spaces online through platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, which provide details on available features and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near major attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and rail services, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk smaller distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel with these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare scheme. The high living expenses in Central London are influenced by its main attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly reducing rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s diverse ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, embrace the diversity and richness of housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.