Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently achieved the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration might not seem extensive, I have garnered some valuable insights throughout this period. London is a dynamic city, not just because of its array of housing options but also due to its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, verify amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing and travelling between zones straightforward. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since inter-zonal commutes can total £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation costs significantly. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, being near grocery stores was vital. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being close to essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood is a formidable task. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a connection to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic enclave with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London shift according to personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new place to live in London, embrace the richness and variety of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.