Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration may not be extensive, I have acquired several insights. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private residences present a wide range of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, investigate available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, 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 excellent public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing and traveling between zones effortless. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips could amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. Central London is home to numerous attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering the rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is often more challenging to encounter in private accommodations.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood can be quite daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for elements of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.