Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of living in London. Although this time frame isn’t extensive, I’ve picked up a few lessons along the way. London is an energetic city, recognized not just for its various housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible housing options online, including the amenities available and their distance from transportation hubs.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near key sights, popular areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which eases movement and commuting across zones. I intended to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can climb to £5.25 each day. Instead of relying on buses or the tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made getting to university much more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services run beyond the Underground system, connecting areas outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the unique fare structures of each train operator. The city’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, being at university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, which led to significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, helps save valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students pursue connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling neighborhood filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.