Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although this time may not seem extensive, I have gained several insights. London stands out as a dynamic city, celebrated for its varied housing choices and communities. Students have an abundance of options available nearby, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, detailing amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can accumulate to £5.25 each day; therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Moreover, services like London Overground and National Rail extend past the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of different train operators. The high living costs in Central London relate to its prominent attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend during our university studies helped us significantly reduce our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is less common in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural landscape, showcasing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the bustling West End of London presents a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London ultimately hinge on individual interests and preferences. When looking for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.