Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this isn’t an extended duration, I’ve accumulated some valuable insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a wealth of options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private residences offer a range of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore their prospective living spaces online, alongside the amenities available and their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize transportation expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central part of London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of different train operating companies. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, I went to university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with a diverse range of students from similar age groups, a blend that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was key for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland available. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial 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 culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.