Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it might not appear lengthy, I have gathered various insights throughout this period. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its array of housing choices but also by its multifaceted communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of selections including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, verify amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
In my endeavor to find a place to stay, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing and traveling between the zones quite straightforward. Personally, I aimed to keep travel expenses low as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside of central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing schemes of each rail company. The major sights in central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics—a combination that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
For me, being close to supermarkets was vital. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of connection to their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a sampling of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the vast diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.