Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this is not an extensive duration, I’ve acquired various insights throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, showcasing a wide array of housing options alongside its rich cultural communities. Students can choose from a plethora of alternatives. Both university accommodations and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view their prospective lodgings online, including available amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my search for a place to reside, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to move around and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs associated with Central London’s major attractions are notable. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly cut down on rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age levels, a mix that is harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities of London are essential to its cultural makeup, providing a colorful blend of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with various Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best places to live in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.