Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration might not seem extensive, I’ve accumulated some observations during my time here. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residences and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and consider distance to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to reduce travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made university commutes more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure set by each train company. The high living costs around Central London’s main attractions are notable. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery shops was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential outlets like grocery stores and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam time.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are a key part of its cultural fabric, providing a colorful array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, in West London, features a sizable South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.