Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired some knowledge throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not just because of its vast selection of housing but also due to its varied communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer a range of choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange for apartment tours, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing options online, along with the amenities provided and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to ensure accessibility to key attractions, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground’s reach, connecting to zones outside of central London. The fare for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The city’s renowned attractions significantly influence high living costs. Thankfully, I shared my university experience with a friend, and we decided to cohabit in a room, which considerably lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups—a mix that is harder to achieve in private rentals.
Being near grocery outlets was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during examination seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood to call home is a daunting task. London’s ethnic groups play a key role in its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the familiarity of their homeland amid the city. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of such community-centric neighborhoods.
The best areas to live in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. While searching for a residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vitality of this remarkable city.