Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While nine months might not appear extensive, I have garnered various insights during this period. London is an energetic city, not just regarding its varied housing options but also due to its dynamic communities. Numerous choices are available to students. Both student residences and private accommodations offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their potential housing online, encompassing the amenities available and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room to rent in Central London to be near major attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies mobility and travel between zones. Personally, I aspired to limit travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Fortunately, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing model of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions result in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodations, which significantly alleviated rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating connections with peers from diverse backgrounds, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a tough task. The city’s ethnic communities are a crucial component of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nation while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best areas to live in London rely on personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.