Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not be extensive, I have acquired several understandings. London stands out as a vibrant city, not solely due to its assortment of housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student living and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living spaces online, review available features, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London provides an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and commuting between zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses since trips across zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I decided to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, extending to areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance traveled and the pricing structure of each train operator. The city’s central attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, having a friend at university allowed us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Main supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural mosaic, presenting a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students seek to find elements reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the lively West End of London, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
Choosing the ideal place to live in London relies on personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.