Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months living in London. Although it might seem brief, I have acquired numerous perspectives throughout this period. London presents itself as a vibrant city, characterized not only by its assorted housing options but also by its varied communities. Students find themselves with a wealth of choices. Options abound in both student accommodations and private residencies, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can promptly arrange apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom support international students in virtually touring prospective homes, the amenities provided, and the convenience of access to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to major sights, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers an exceptional public transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I personally sought to minimize commuting expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. However, the oyster card options have significantly lowered commuting costs for university trips. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services depend on the distance covered and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, effectively lowering rent costs. I preferred student housing affiliated with multiple colleges, in hopes of meeting fellow students from diverse backgrounds and ages, a blend less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, nearby conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural landscape, weaving a rich array of various neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of home in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian population with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable living areas in London are determined by personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, it’s advisable to appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of housing choices, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and thrill that this extraordinary city offers.