Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. It may not sound extensive, but I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its multifaceted communities. Students have numerous alternatives at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodging provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and find nearby public transport options.
While searching for a living arrangement, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London presents significant attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I joined university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London has a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London will vary based on your interests and necessities. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.