Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gathered several observations. London is an energetic city, recognized not only for its myriad of housing alternatives but also for its varied communities. Students are presented with a wealth of options. Both student residences and private housing feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to browse possible accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain near key sites, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most accessible. London boasts an efficient transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates travel across zones. I aspired to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for buses or the tube, I chose to walk short distances. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more pocket-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Tariffs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London result in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we made the choice to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds within the same age group, an arrangement more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common retail chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines daily tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look to find familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian presence featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional fashion shops. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music vibe. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural events. These illustrate just a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for new accommodations in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and revel in the availability and thrill of this extraordinary city.