Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t significant, I’ve gathered a few perspectives throughout this time. London is an energetic city, not only for its wide range of housing possibilities but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both university housing and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, showcasing the amenities provided and the closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near 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 boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes transiting and traveling between zones simple. I was keen on minimizing my commuting expenses, as traveling between zones might cost as much as £5.25 a day. I opted to walk shorter distances, foregoing bus or tube rides. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have rendered university travels more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance and each train company’s fare policy. The prominent attractions in central London drive up living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which led to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often tougher to locate in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s diverse communities are vital to its cultural makeup, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London look for signs of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community, replete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End serves as an energetic district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples showcase just a fragment of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.