Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might appear brief, I’ve gathered several perspectives during this period. London is an energetic city, not only due to its varied living options but also its eclectic communities. Students have a multitude of alternatives available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain in close proximity to key sites, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel between zones. I intended to minimize travel costs since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of various train companies. The major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from different backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more difficult to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their homelands while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.