Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I’ve gained several perspectives throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its range of living arrangements but also for its varied communities. There are countless options available for students. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including the features available and nearness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing and traveling between zones straightforward. I sought to lower my travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach locations beyond the Underground network, extending into areas outside central London. Rates for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train company. The high cost of living in Central London is influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly easing our rent burden. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, with the hope of connecting with students from varied cultures and similar age groups, which might be more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to key shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines tasks, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing a rich mosaic of diverse districts. Numerous international students in London seek a taste of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian presence, home to Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When you embark on the journey to find a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and energy of this extraordinary city.