Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered a few insights. London is a vibrant city, not only for its numerous housing choices but also for its eclectic communities. Students find themselves with a multitude of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, assess facilities, and discover nearby public transport links.
During my search for a living space, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel among zones. I wished to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, stretching into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its prime attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, considerably reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds within the same age range, a blend that’s tougher to find in private housing.
Being near grocery outlets was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to key stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, presenting various neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London seek the comfort of their native countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.