Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this might seem like a brief time, I’ve amassed some observations. London is a vibrant city, offering not only a variety of housing options but also its multitude of communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom offer international students the ability to browse potential housing online, along with details about amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key tourist attractions, social hangouts, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between the zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can escalate to £5.25 daily for crossing zones, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions within Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, since I attended university with a companion, we shared a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging to achieve in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Picking a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural composition, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the warmth of their home culture. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant quarter with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and abundance of its housing options, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.