Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residence in London. Although this period is not exceptionally lengthy, I’ve gained substantial insights. London stands out as a vibrant city, not only for its diverse living arrangements but also because of its varied communities. Students have a multitude of options available right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private rentals provide facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, along with the available amenities and access to public transit.
During my search for housing, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to central attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zone travel can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly lowered university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare structure dictated by each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I had a friend from university, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred student accommodations that encourage interaction with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would be more difficult in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time saver, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural landscape, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity within London that reflects their home countries. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End hosts an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. While hunting for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.