Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe may seem brief, I’ve acquired several perspectives. London is a dynamic city, not only for its extensive range of housing alternatives but also for its varied communities. Students find themselves with a multitude of options. Both student housing and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can easily set up viewings for apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore upcoming accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. London comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city is equipped with an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare system of each train company. Central London, home to key attractions, is associated with elevated living costs. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s harder to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural identity, presenting a richly woven tapestry of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to live in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and vibrancy of its housing choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.