Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it may not seem like an extensive duration, I’ve gathered some perspectives. London is a vibrant city, distinguished not only by its assorted housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of alternatives available to them. Both university accommodations and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily book viewings for apartments, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, complete with amenities and their distance to public transport.
In my hunt for a residence, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social gathering spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips could reach £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commutes to university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the underground system, covering areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs near Central London’s major attractions are a challenge. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, drastically cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, wishing to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery outlets was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of home in London. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a sizable South Asian community with its Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a glimpse of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the quest for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and variety of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.