Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear extensive, I have gained valuable perspectives during this period. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students enjoy a wealth of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer various arrangements like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential residences online, including the amenities provided and the accessibility to public transport.
While searching for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I wished to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal commuting can cost as much as £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, various oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail networks extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living costs in central London are steep, largely due to its key attractions. Fortunately, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly decreasing rental expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students of diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies in close proximity saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic populations are essential to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a hint of familiarity from their native countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End, is a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples represent only a fraction of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are determined by personal interests and needs. When on the lookout for a new place to call home in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.