Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of residing in London, I have gained some valuable observations. This vibrant city stands out not only for its varied housing options but also for the communities that thrive here. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer an array of possibilities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and gauge their closeness to public transport.
During my search for living arrangements, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies transit and travel among zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses as inter-zonal commuting can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the availability of oyster card options has made commuting to the university more economical. 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 depend on the distance and the fare structure of the specific train companies. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to the elevated cost of living. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are available, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for the comfort of their home country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of the city’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and excitement of this extraordinary city.