Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide array of housing options but also by its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a multitude of alternatives available to them. Both student residencies and private accommodations offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom equip international students to browse potential lodgings online, evaluate available features, and gauge proximity to public transit.
During my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transportation framework, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables straightforward movement across and between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on bus or tube transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of various train companies. The significant number of attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly lessening our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural framework, presenting a wealth of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students in London yearn for the comfort of their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave brimming with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement offered by this extraordinary city.