Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although it might not appear long, I have gathered some valuable perspectives throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students can find numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature a variety of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can explore possible housing online through sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, which detail amenities and proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay near main attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superior transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services breach the Underground network, connecting to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, enrolling in university with a friend enabled us to share a room and substantially cut down on rental costs. I leaned toward intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a connection that’s harder to achieve in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is quite challenging. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London search for connections to their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a robust South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.