Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this might not appear to be an extended period, the knowledge I’ve gained is substantial. London is a bustling metropolis, known for both its varied housing possibilities and its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of alternatives available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals present different choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, alongside the amenities available and their distance from public transit.
During my quest for a living space, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize transportation expenses since traveling between zones could cost up to £5.25 each day. I preferred to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare policy. The central area’s principal attractions drive up living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student residences to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, living close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London play a significant role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich assortment of diverse locales. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, centrally located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural activities. These represent just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.