Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this might not be a lengthy period, I have acquired several observations. London is an energetic city, known not only for its numerous housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective homes online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I targeted 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 the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows straightforward travel and movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commuting can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare structures of individual train operators. The high living costs in Central London are largely due to its major attractions. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to split a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant mix of different neighbourhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a few instances of community-driven neighbourhoods.
The ideal residential areas in London are contingent upon your preferences and necessities. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.