Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of residing in London, I’ve gathered several observations during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its range of housing possibilities but also owing to its varied communities. Students have an array of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared homes. Local students can effortlessly arrange for property viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential housing options online, reviewing available facilities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aspired to rent a room in Central London to remain near key sites, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel across different zones. For my preferences, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can accrue costs up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structures of each train operator. The presence of central London’s prominent landmarks leads to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we decided to share accommodation, significantly reducing our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is less common in privately-owned properties.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, creating a vibrant mix of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The preferred areas for living in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the vastness and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this incredible city.