Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extended period, I’ve gained some insights. London is lively, not just in its varied living arrangements but also in its communities. Students have a plethora of options available right at their doorsteps. Both student residences and private housing provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential accommodations online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London, close to key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London boasts an excellent public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, options like the oyster card have reduced commuting costs for university. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend coverage outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London presents major attractions, which contributes to high living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups, a feat that would have been more challenging through private properties.
Being near grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiar comfort from their home countries. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End features Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These exemplify community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on your personal interests and needs. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of accommodation selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the conveniences and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.