Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. While it’s a relatively brief period, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London stands out as a vibrant city, boasting not only a variety of living arrangements but also an array of different communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential living spaces online, review available features, and gauge distance to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to stay close to key sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the closest to the center. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making movement and travel between zones straightforward. To keep travel expenses in check, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zone journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have dramatically lowered travel costs for university trips. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. While Central London’s popular attractions drive living costs up, sharing a room with a friend allowed us to save significantly on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling hub filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few representations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When considering a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.