Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve accumulated some valuable observations throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have numerous selections available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and communal living situations. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective lodgings online, including the amenities provided and their proximity to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys could amount up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I had a friend attending the same university, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rental savings. I was drawn to intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London crave a sense of familiarity with their homelands. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a glimpse of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing solutions, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.