Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not be an extended duration, I have gleaned several insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its myriad housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options at their disposal. Both student-specific housing and private residences feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on finding a room to rent in Central London to remain near major attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding public transit system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with students from a wide array of backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private housing.
For me, living near grocery retailers was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London long for the familiarity of their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling locale filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These examples represent just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are determined by personal interests and needs. To find a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.