Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I have acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its wide array of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students enjoy a vast selection at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals present different alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, whereas international students can conveniently explore prospective housing online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, checking amenities and proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is arranged into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling straightforward navigation across zones. To keep travel expenses down, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made traveling to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground system, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for travel between zones fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, having a friend at the university allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from different backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery stores was vital. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s diverse ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, creating a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.