Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy duration, I’ve gathered some perspectives in this span. London is an energetic city, not solely due to its array of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment inspections, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online, review available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, aiming to stay near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel between zones. To cut down on travel costs, as inter-zonal transit can reach up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the fare pricing of each train service. Residing in Central London comes with high living expenses due to key attractions. Luckily, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be tough. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing rich neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling locale filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a glimpse of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.