Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month mark of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I have gleaned several insights. London is bustling with energy, not only in its varied housing choices but also within its many communities. Students find themselves surrounded by numerous options. Both student housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their future living spaces online, including details on amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to call home, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six layered zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transit network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy mobility between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commuting can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, accessing zones outside of central London. Costs for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. Central London boasts numerous major attractions, resulting in high living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and a similar age, a mix that is more difficult to encounter in private rentals.
Having convenience stores nearby was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students seek to find a taste of home within London. Southall, located in West London, is populated with a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Over in South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, acts as a vibrant hub filled with countless Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few representations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city offers.