Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gathered some perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students have numerous options right at their doorsteps. Both student accommodations and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an efficient transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, resulting in exceptionally high living costs. Thankfully, I was sharing university accommodation with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a diverse mix that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a difficult decision. London’s diverse ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural essence, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home country’s familiarity. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London depend on your preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.