Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Even though it hasn’t been a long period, I have gathered some observations throughout this time. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing provide a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom support international students in exploring potential living arrangements online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating proximity to public transportation.
During my search for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s university grounds. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. Instead of using a bus or tube for short distances, I chose to walk. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services provide access to areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are due to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we decided to share a room, which resulted in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to important stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant 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 atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.