Penned by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this may not seem like a significant amount of time, I have gathered several observations throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can promptly arrange viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, along with details about facilities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to stroll short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. The costs of living in Central London’s attractions are steep. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, something less attainable with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their homeland. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for a new place to live in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.