Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this timeframe may not be lengthy, it has proven to be quite illuminating. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its vast selection of housing options but also for the varied communities that inhabit it. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals offer a range of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, verify available facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel costs as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The presence of major attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that private properties might lack.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its challenges. The city’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London boasts a prominent Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary based on individual preferences and needs. When looking for a new place to live in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.