Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired some perspectives. London is a vibrant city, not just for its varied housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a wide range of choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students in viewing potential residences online, checking facilities, and evaluating proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near major landmarks, social centers, 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, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates seamless navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. Central London, home to major attractions, comes with elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that can be harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling enclave with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These illustrate just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge upon personal interests and needs. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.