Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not seem like a long duration, I’ve gathered various observations during this period. London is an energetic city, not only in terms of its numerous housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom support international students in exploring prospective accommodations online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the core. London features an excellent transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which enables straightforward navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since travelling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I was at university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is tougher to find in private rentals.
For me, residing close to grocery shops was vital. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, which is especially advantageous during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a tough choice. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural tapestry, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home cultures. Southall, in West London, is home to a prominent South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Situated in the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.