Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students enjoy numerous choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private accommodations offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and traversal between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary depending on the distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London is home to key attractions, which contribute to high living costs. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, so we opted to share a room and made significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix less common in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek to find a sense of home akin to their native countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.