Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have acquired some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a wide array of housing options and communities. Students have numerous choices available to them, ranging from student accommodations to private residences like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore future housing options online, assess amenities, and discover links to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Oyster card choices have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London, with fares differing based on distance and train operator pricing structures. The high living expenses in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging with private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities within London are vital to its cultural identity, providing diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, part of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.