Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gathered a number of observations in that time. London is a dynamic city, offering not only a wide array of housing choices but also a rich mixture of communities. Students are presented with a plethora of options. Both student residences and private living arrangements offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore housing possibilities online, verify the amenities available, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted renting a room in Central London to be close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the innermost zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Yet, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The prices for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London significantly impact living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share accommodations, greatly lowering the rent. I favored intercollegiate student living arrangements to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is often more challenging to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be complicated. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural makeup, providing a vibrant collage of different neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian presence with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with various Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples reflect just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of housing choices, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.