Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of living in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I have acquired some knowledge during this period. London is a vibrant city, not only with its wide range of housing options but also its myriad of communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential homes online, including available amenities and accessibility to public transport.
While looking for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near major sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones straightforward. Personally, I wished to lower travel costs since inter-zonal commuting can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of each train company. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend at university allowed us to dramatically reduce rent prices. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time when handling errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.