Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of living in London. Although this period may not seem extensive, I have gained valuable perspectives throughout my time here. London is a bustling metropolis, known not only for its vast selection of housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both university accommodation and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and communal house shares. Local students have the convenience of scheduling apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, check available facilities, and evaluate the location’s accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London for easy access to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel across zones. To cut down on travel costs, as inter-zonal fares can reach as much as £5.25 per day, I opted for walking shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have enabled more economical commutes for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground system, penetrating zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of the various train operators. The high living costs in Central London, driven by its prominent attractions, can be daunting. Luckily, attending university with a friend afforded us the opportunity to share a room and significantly reduce our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, an experience that may have been harder to attain in private residences.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines daily errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural richness, contributing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London search for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London is notable for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are tailored to individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, take in the diversity and wealth of housing choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.