Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although this may not be a lengthy duration, it has provided me with valuable experiences. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have plenty of alternatives available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential residences online, including available amenities and their distance from public transportation.
In my pursuit of a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an excellent transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel costs since crossing between zones can incur fees of up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each rail operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, being at university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private accommodations.
Living close 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 near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Choosing a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling locale with numerous Chinese restaurants, marketplaces, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of such community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.