Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period is relatively brief, I have gained some insights. London stands out as a dynamic city, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its rich communities. Students find an abundance of choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house share arrangements. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective homes online, reviewing amenities, and accessing public transport links.
While I was looking for a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating between zones straightforward. I sought to lower my travel expenses since moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 each day. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have provided a more affordable way to commute to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching further zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs around Central London’s major attractions can be a concern. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which allowed us to significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, as this would have been tougher through private rentals.
Being near grocery shops was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting an array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a taste of their home culture in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Conversely, Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to live in London will depend on your personal interests and requirements. When you are on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and assortment of housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the comfort and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.