Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of living in London. While this may not seem like a long time, I’ve gained valuable perspectives throughout this period. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its assorted housing options but also its varied communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, complete with details on amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I targeted a room rental in Central London to be close to key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel costs since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside of central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and pricing set by each train operator. Central London’s main attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a demographic mix harder to find in private rentals.
For me, living close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential facilities such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural richness, presenting a diverse selection of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for elements of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The best areas to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new place in London, embrace its varied accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.