Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem like a brief period, I have gathered several reflections along the way. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its lively communities. Students enjoy a myriad of options just steps away. Both student residences and private housing present different choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, whereas websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom provide international students with the ability to explore their future living spaces online, check the facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transportation.
In my pursuit of housing, I aimed to find a room in Central London to stay near prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a fantastic transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes moving between zones hassle-free. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, both London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share accommodations, significantly decreasing our rent. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with individuals from assorted backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Major supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearer to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, especially during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood for living is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are key to its cultural essence, offering a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek familiarity with aspects of their home country while in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and rich music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When embarking on a search for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.