Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I’ve gleaned a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing possibilities but also for its eclectic communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student residences and private housing present choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures straightforward navigation and travel across zones. To cut travel expenses, given that inter-zonal trips could cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones past central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly eased our rent burden. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from a range of backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more challenging to find in private dwellings.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are woven into its cultural tapestry, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples showcase just a few of the community neighborhoods available.
The optimal places to live in London are based on personal interests and necessities. While searching for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, discover cultural enclaves, and relish in the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.