Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London, I’ve gained a few observations. This dynamic city is vibrant, not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its heterogeneous communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Housing geared towards students alongside private rentals provides amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, including details about amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I looked for a room in Central London for easy access to key sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, considering inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have enhanced affordability for university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services vary based on distance and the fare arrangements of each train operator. While Central London boasts significant attractions, the cost of living is steep. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to greatly alleviate rent costs. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End showcases numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent a mere sampling of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal locations for living in London hinge upon personal preferences and necessities. When on the hunt for a place to call home in London, embrace the abundance and diversity of its housing possibilities, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.