Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic city, characterized by its varied living arrangements and vibrant communities. Students have abundant options right at their fingertips. Both communal student housing and private rentals feature choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment showings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview prospective homes online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for housing, my goal was to lease 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 transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 each day. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, options for oyster cards have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, services like London Overground and National Rail reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on such services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem from its main attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private residences.
For me, living close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be complex. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural essence, creating diverse districts. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home country within London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These serve as just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for residing in London rely on one’s preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.