Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month living in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, notable for its varied housing choices and bustling communities. Students have a multitude of options available. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of selections including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, showcasing facilities and accessibility to public transport.
In my hunt for a place to live, I sought to secure a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a remarkable transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone transportation on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London lead to higher living costs. Luckily, I joined university with a friend, and we opted to split a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, particularly during the exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are a significant aspect of its cultural scene, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. In the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These stand as a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.