Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have gained substantial insights. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a wide array of housing choices and varied communities. Students can access numerous options nearby, such as student residences and private accommodations featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living spaces online, review amenities, and locate local public transport links.
During my search for a dwelling, I intended to rent a room in Central London to be near main attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as commuting between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, so I opted for walking short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, options like oyster cards have made commuting to the university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure set by each train operator. The high living costs in central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, resulting in significant rental savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been challenging through private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was crucial for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, providing distinct neighbourhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their homeland in London. West London’s Southall hosts a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, features an abundance of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal living areas in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, relish the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.