Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students find a multitude of options right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private housing present features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, examine amenities, and identify the closest public transport connections.
While looking for a place to stay, I focused on securing a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transit can cost up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, resulting in significant rental savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area adorned with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.