Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear as an extensive duration, I’ve gathered several insights during this time. London is an energetic city, known not only for its variety of living arrangements but also for its bustling communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both student housing and private rentals offer a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including the amenities available and access to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies getting around the city and traveling between zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on my travel costs as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, significantly lowering rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having easy access to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland offer more affordability. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time during errands, particularly in exam seasons.
Determining which neighborhood to live in is a tough choice. London’s ethnic communities play a fundamental role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for links to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery retailers, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to live in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. While seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the city’s accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.