Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not be an extensive duration, I’ve gained several perspectives throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only regarding its varied housing options but also its rich mix of communities. Students find themselves with a plethora of choices. Both student residences and private accommodations offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily organize apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing options online, including the facilities available and distance to public transport.
While searching for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones effortless. I wanted to reduce travel costs since crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural mosaic, providing a rich array of diverse locales. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity from their native countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling haven filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.