Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained various perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its varied housing opportunities but also because of its communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, inspect facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my search for a place, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between the zones. I looked to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 each day. Thus, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have reduced costs for commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student residences to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a buzzing area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and wealth of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and appreciate the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.