Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not be a lengthy duration, I have gathered some observations. London is a bustling metropolis, notable for its varied housing options and its lively communities. Students are offered a range of choices. Student residences and private accommodations provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential living spaces online, complete with available facilities and access to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since travel between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk for shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare setup of each train operator. Central London is dotted with major attractions, leading to high living costs. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a mixture that is often harder to come by in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. The ethnic communities in London are a fundamental part of its cultural identity, creating a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a lively quarter hosting many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.