Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residence in London. Although this may not seem like a lengthy period, I have gathered several observations along the way. London is a dynamic city, known not only for its varied housing possibilities but also for its energetic communities. Students have an abundance of options available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide numerous choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in examining potential living spaces online, complete with details about amenities and their distance from public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed to lease a room in Central London in order to be near popular landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel among zones. I wished to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground lines, connecting to areas outside central London. Travel fares between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing models of various train companies. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which resulted in substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in privately owned properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London form an integral component of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian populace, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, represents a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.