Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months is a brief period, I’ve acquired a few observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide range of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both university accommodation and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange for apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made 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 vary according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem from its numerous attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room and significantly reduce rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural tapestry, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown situated in London’s West End is a bustling enclave filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.