Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have garnered a few perspectives. London is an energetic city, not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students are presented with numerous selections. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives like ensuite and suite restrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students assess their prospective accommodations online, along with the facilities and access to public transit.
During my quest for a place to stay, I targeted a room in Central London to be near key landmarks, vibrant areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables straightforward movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips could cost up to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structures of the respective train companies. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as I sought to connect with students from various backgrounds and a similar age group, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering a vibrant mix of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country’s familiarity in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community enclaves.
The ideal places to live in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the richness and diversity of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.