Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this may not be an extensive period, I have acquired several insights during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its range of housing alternatives but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have endless possibilities at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio units, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their potential housing online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for seamless movement and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transit can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card fare options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and of similar age, which is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time running errands, especially during examination periods.
Choosing a neighborhood to reside in is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a diverse assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When embarking on the search for a new residence in London, embrace the multitude and richness of its housing selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.