Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its diverse housing options but also for its rich array of communities. Students have an abundance of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals present a wide range of possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, check on available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes traveling between zones a breeze. To minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly lower our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private accommodations.
Having grocery stores within reach was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. The diverse ethnic communities of London form an essential part of its cultural richness, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London boasts an Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of local neighborhood communities.
The optimal locations to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and variety of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.