Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable for its varied housing options as well as its multifaceted communities. Students find a wide array of selections right at their fingertips. Both university housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and identify nearby public transport options.
In my search for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made daily university travels less expensive. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground system, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare policies of each train company. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by prominent attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which resulted in significant savings on rent. I preferred university communal accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. The most common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are an integral part of its cultural identity, presenting a mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international scholars in London crave a sense of familiarity with their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These serve as merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and variety of available accommodations, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.