Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear extensive, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not only for its diverse housing choices but also for its varied communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to inspect their potential homes online, check available amenities, and evaluate their accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to significant attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, comprising the subway (tube), buses, and trains, ensuring straightforward navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in central London are largely due to its major attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly lower our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age range, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities within London are a vital component of its cultural landscape, creating a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for the comfort of their home country’s culture. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London greatly depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.