Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gathered several insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its numerous communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including details on amenities and distance to public transport.
In my search for a living space, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services service areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, inflating living costs. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which led to substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was important to me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.