Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its array of housing choices but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including features and access to public transportation.
During my search for a living space, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London features an outstanding public transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 per day. I preferred walking shorter distances over taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room and considerably cut down on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.