Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve gathered some valuable observations. London is a vibrant city, presenting an extensive range of housing choices and varied communities. There are plentiful options available for students. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view potential homes online, check facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, supports ease of travel and movement between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting could lead to costs up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Rates for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure established by each train operating company. The high living expenses in Central London, driven by its numerous major attractions, are a factor to consider. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, significantly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix not easily found in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. The proximity to fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, providing varied living environments. Numerous international students look for elements of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music landscape. Chinatown, found in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples merely scratch the surface of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods in London are determined by personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new living space in London, appreciate the diverse and abundant housing options, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.