Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, I’ve collected some valuable observations along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for the range of housing alternatives but also for its various communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer a variety of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore their future homes online, highlighting the amenities provided and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I set out to find a room to rent in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling smooth movement and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more cost-effective. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train company. Major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, my university attendance alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet individuals from different backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
For me, living close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a difficult choice. The ethnic communities in London form a vital part of its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a connection to their home cultures. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area packed with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.