Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gleaned valuable lessons in this time. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its wide range of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students are presented with numerous choices at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transportation infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement between zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal transit can amount to £5.25 each day. Consequently, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, options with Oyster cards have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the respective fare structure of each train company. The costs of living in Central London are high due to the area’s major attractions. Thankfully, I shared my university experience with a friend, and we opted to co-rent a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I had a preference for intercollegiate student housing, anticipating that it would provide opportunities to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London are a fundamental part of its cultural landscape, contributing a rich diversity to its neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, boasts a prominent South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively neighborhood filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These reflect just a few examples of community-oriented areas.
The ideal neighborhoods in London vary according to individual interests and requirements. When seeking a new place to call home in London, embrace the rich diversity of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.