Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights during this period. London is a dynamic city, not solely because of its variety of living arrangements but also due to its lively communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an excellent public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I preferred to reduce travel expenses since inter-zone transport can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services branch out beyond the Underground network, covering areas beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high cost of living in Central London is largely due to its main attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and a similar age group, a combination that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural identity, creating a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London crave the comfort of their home country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and bustling music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the city’s accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.