Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my completion of nine months living in London. Although this isn’t a long duration, I have gleaned some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its eclectic communities. Students can access an array of possibilities. Both student accommodations and personal rentals offer selections like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential homes digitally, alongside amenities and access to public transportation.
During my housing search, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel across zones. I personally aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. Instead of opting for buses or the tube for short distances, I chose to walk. However, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Inter-zone travel fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses in Central London are partly due to its major attractions. Luckily, having a friend at university enabled us to share a room, leading to a notable decrease in rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that is less common in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, providing a colorful array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for familiarity with their home culture. Southall, located in West London, showcases a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace its diversity and wealth of accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.