Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of living in London. Although nine months is not a long time, I’ve acquired some valuable experiences throughout this duration. London is a vibrant city, not only known for its varied housing options but also for its rich array of communities. Students have a multitude of selections available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones easy. I sought to cut down on travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university cheaper. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas beyond central London. Pricing for these services varies according to distance and the fare policies of each rail operator. The major attractions in central London lead to elevated living costs. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, considerably lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix that is often harder to find in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was imperative for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op exist, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarities with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.