Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing offer various amenities including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared versus private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, examine facilities, and locate nearby transport links.
During my housing search, my preference was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric rings, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s robust transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching into zones outside central London. Inter-zone travel fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train provider. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, significantly lessening our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near key shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing the right neighborhood is a complex task. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. A number of international students in London seek connections to their home culture. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a selection of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are dictated by individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.