Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of living in London. Although nine months may not be a long stretch, I’ve gathered some insights during this period. London is a lively metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing possibilities but also for its thriving communities. Students have ample choices right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring their prospective residences online, verifying amenities, and locating nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for a home, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to lower travel expenditures since inter-zonal commuting can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys less costly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these transportation services fluctuate depending on the distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London hosts significant attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, resulting in considerable rental savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Common retail chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, providing a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. A majority of international students in London seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Situated in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. While seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.