Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I’ve accumulated some observations. London is a dynamic city that presents a plethora of housing options and lively neighborhoods. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to preview their future living spaces online, including the facilities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making inter-zone travel smooth and accessible. I sought to diminish travel expenses, as costs for moving between zones can surge to £5.25 per day. I preferred walking 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, covering zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of different train operating companies. The allure of major attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to split a room, considerably lowering our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private residences.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, creating a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity that echoes their home countries in London. Southall in West London shelters a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with an array of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
Determining the most suitable places to live in London hinges on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.