Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it may not be extensive, I have gathered several observations. London is an energetic city, not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students are offered numerous choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, along with associated amenities and transportation links.
In my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London showcases an impressive transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and travel across zones. To keep travel expenditures low, especially since inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to stroll short distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, using an oyster card has rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, catering to regions outside central London. Costs for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing strategy of each train provider. Central London houses numerous major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves invaluable time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural makeup, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few representations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to live in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness inherent in its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.