By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not seem extensive, I have acquired several insights during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a wide array of housing options and dynamic communities. Students can choose from various accommodations, including student residences, private housing, ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, review available amenities, and assess their distance to public transport.
In my quest for a place to call home, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing and moving between zones quite easy. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London, with fares differing based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share accommodations, vastly lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse locales. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.