Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of residence in London, I have garnered some valuable observations. London is a bustling metropolis, not solely due to its variety of housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. There are numerous choices available for students in the vicinity. Student residences and private housing provide numerous alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and house-sharing arrangements. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective housing online, including available amenities and their distance from public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement and travel among zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. However, options like the oyster card have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high cost of living in central London is influenced by its major tourist attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is rarer in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Familiar supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the wealth of accommodation choices, immerse yourself in cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.