Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although it might appear brief, I’ve gained various perspectives during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its wide-ranging living arrangements but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students have numerous options available. Both student residences and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential residences online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zone travel could cost up to £5.25 each day. I prioritized walking short distances over taking buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting for university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The significant number of attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, considerably lowering rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. The diverse ethnic communities of London are pivotal to its cultural landscape, weaving a colorful array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for familiarity with their native country. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich areas.
The optimal locations to live in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new place in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.