Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. While it may not seem lengthy, I’ve picked up several insights. London is a bustling city, not solely due to its varied housing choices but also through its numerous communities. Students have a host of options available right at their feet. Both student residences and private housing present features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future living spaces online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I was inclined 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 zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel across the zones. I aimed to minimize commuting expenses as inter-zonal travel can total up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commuting more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of individual train operators. Central London houses significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we cohabitated in a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to come by in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, presents a wealth of Chinese dining options, retail outlets, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.