Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive duration, I’ve gained a significant amount of insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its communities. Students have a multitude of options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their future homes online, including amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my search for a living space, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options make commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are impacted by its major attractions. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share accommodation, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is often less prevalent in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was a priority for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the familiarity of their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this exceptional city.