Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered several observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting an array of housing choices and lively communities. Students are presented with multiple options at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment tours, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing choices online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London for easy access to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which eases movement and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can be as high as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the 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 fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure employed by each train company. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are a vital aspect of its cultural landscape, showcasing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek comfort from their native countries within London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling area with a myriad of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.