Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of living in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, known not only for its extensive lodging options but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of selections available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to virtually check out potential accommodations, facilities, and their proximity to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making movement and travel between zones convenient. I wanted to minimize transport expenses, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of taking buses or the tube for short distances, I chose to walk. Nevertheless, options with an oyster card have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on the distance and fare policies of each train provider. The high living expenses in central London can be attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended the university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which led to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination trickier to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s varied ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural scene, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music culture. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.