Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period isn’t extensive, I have acquired some knowledge during my stay. London is an energetic city, not only for its various housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange flat viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to view potential homes online, including their features and distance to public transportation.
In my hunt for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spaces, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an excellent transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to keep travel costs down, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The key attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rental expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural richness, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to live in London are contingent on personal interests and needs. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s varied housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.