Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period may not be extensive, I have gleaned a variety of observations. London stands out as a vibrant metropolis, not just for its assortment of living choices but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Whether considering student housing or private rentals, there are alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and home shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, complete with details about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I primarily focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a robust transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making commuting and inter-zone travel straightforward. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, given that crossing zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on bus or tube services. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Living costs in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering the rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a demographic mix often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital aspect of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity from their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the core of London’s West End, Chinatown boasts countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When exploring new housing in London, relish the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and thrill offered by this extraordinary city.