Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not too long ago, I hit the milestone of living for nine months in London. While it may seem short, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a dynamic city, enriching not only due to its array of housing options but also its vibrant communities. Students have a multitude of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to minimize commuting expenses, given that travel between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services access areas outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure set by each train provider. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its attractions. Fortunately, I attended the university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a diversity that is often more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being located near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London play a pivotal role in its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. A significant number of international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the bustling heart of London’s West End offers a wealth of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best living areas in London depend on your individual interests and requirements. When embarking on the journey to find a new home in London, immerse yourself in the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, explore its cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and energy this extraordinary city has to offer.