Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
In recent times, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Even though this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is dynamic, not only because of its varied housing alternatives but also due to its communities. Students enjoy numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and access links to public transport.
As I searched for accommodation, I prioritized a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and inter-zone travel simple. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university travel. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach a broader area beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Inter-zone travel fares on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London presents major attractions, resulting in higher living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share accommodation, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities of London play a vital role in its cultural landscape, offering a range of neighborhoods. Many international students seek to experience a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a vibrant hub with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of the community neighborhoods available.
The best places to live in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.