Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may not be a long duration, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives during this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized by its varied housing choices and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide numerous selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore available housing options online, along with the amenities and their location relative to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to stay near significant attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a top-notch transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and commute between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as journeys between zones can accumulate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare schemes of each operating train company. The demand for major attractions in Central London drives up living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, with the hope of connecting with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to come by in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home country while in London. Southall in West London hosts a sizable South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.