Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have gathered some valuable insights during this time. London is a dynamic city, not only for its wide range of living options but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices available nearby. Both student residences and private housing present various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential rentals online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for seamless navigation and inter-zone travel. Personally, I aimed to minimize transportation expenses, as inter-zone travel costs can escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The costs of living near Central London’s key attractions tend to be high. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and ages, a blend that is more difficult to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly chains such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near important establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural richness, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and colorful music culture. In London’s West End, Chinatown stands out as a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.