Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, famed not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have abundant options available to them. Both university accommodation and private housing provide various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, examine facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, entertainment hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is split into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being at the heart. London boasts an exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across and between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. The fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structures of train companies. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which substantially cut our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student residences to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that can be trickier to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable chains like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retail outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of varied neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is notable for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few examples of community neighbourhoods.
The best locations to live in London are contingent upon individual interests and needs. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.