Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for straightforward movement and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have significantly lowered university commute costs. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, expanding access to zones outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are largely due to its prime attractions. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university has allowed us to greatly reduce our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds, a mix more difficult to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be complex. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London are determined by personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, make the most of the city’s varied housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.