Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe may seem short, I have gained a considerable amount of experience. London is a bustling metropolis, notable not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective residences online, including available amenities and proximity to public transit.
During my hunt for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near key sites, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most urban. London features an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel among zones. I aimed to decrease my travel expenses, as commuting between zones can amount to £5.25 each day. Thus, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university trips. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Fare structures for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s pricing. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
For me, living close to grocery stores was vital. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retail outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its challenges. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, showcasing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. To uncover a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.