Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. While it may not seem like a long time, I’ve gained several insights during my stay. London is a vibrant city, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing include options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, showcasing the amenities available and their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
For me, residing near supermarkets was essential. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during intense exam phases.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its challenges. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich assortment of diverse areas. Many international students in London search for the comfort of their native countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the community neighborhoods available.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and needs. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this remarkable city presents.