Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months of living in London. Although it may not be a long duration, I’ve accumulated some valuable experiences. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by the communities that inhabit it. Students have access to a wide range of choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals present options such as ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to check out potential living spaces online, including details about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to live, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social hangouts, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features a remarkable public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across the zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys could cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The high demand for major attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly alleviated our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with other students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Major supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also exist. Having essential stores nearby, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of home. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, with its numerous Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with an abundance of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.