Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gathered several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, offering not just a variety of housing options but also a mix of communities. There are many options available for students. Both university-oriented accommodations and private flats present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, including the amenities available and the distance to public transportation.
In my endeavor to find accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London features an exceptional transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to traverse and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare system employed by each train operator. Central London, being home to various key attractions, results in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a companion enabled us to share accommodation, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. The diverse ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural fabric, providing a rich assortment of neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London look for a connection to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a small sampling of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London are based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to reside in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.