Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I achieved the nine-month mark of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have acquired some perspectives during this period. London is a dynamic city, presenting a vast array of housing options and lively communities. Students have numerous alternatives at their disposal, with both student residences and private rentals offering choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my pursuit of a living space, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aspired to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network into zones outside central London, with fares fluctuating based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Residing near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets consist of 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, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London is difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich mosaic of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students seek familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the centre of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighbourhoods.
The best locations to reside in London rely on individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diverse and rich accommodation choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city provides.