Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of living in London. Although it’s not a long time, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a wealth of housing choices and energetic communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including features and proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, choosing to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare policies of each train company. The major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend harder to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing various neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring 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 vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and variety of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.