Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of living in London. Though this isn’t a lengthy time, I’ve accumulated some observations. London is a dynamic city, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its multicultural populace. Students have a wide array of choices available. Both student residences and private living arrangements provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
During my housing search, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain near key sights, vibrant areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can cost up to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made daily university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The significant attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly diminished our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of different neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most desirable neighborhoods to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. As you search for a new residence in London, relish the diversity and wealth of its housing options, explore cultural hotspots, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.