Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered some knowledge. London is a dynamic city, presenting a plethora of housing choices and lively communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my pursuit of a place to reside, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling smooth navigation and transit among zones. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel costs since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The central attractions of London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, supplemented by more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave brimming with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.