Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gained several insights. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a wide array of living options and dynamic communities. Students have numerous choices, ranging from student accommodation to private housing, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and find public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most urban. London’s transport system, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across the zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The cost of living in Central London, close to major attractions, can be high. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, something that is harder to find in private housing.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End is filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its living choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.