Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of living in London. While this may not seem like a long time, I have gathered several observations. London is an energetic city, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Student accommodations and private rentals offer options such as ensuite bathrooms and suites, shared rooms, private bedrooms, studios, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential homes online, showcasing their features and locations relative to public transport.
During my search for a place to stay, my objective was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is arranged into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an exceptional transport network, including the tube, buses, and trains, making movement and travel across zones simple. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The notable attractions in Central London add to higher living costs. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while at university allowed us to significantly lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was important for me. Well-known grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London are key to its cultural richness, providing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The best places to live in London are based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s varied housing options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.