Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained valuable perspectives. London is an energetic city, notable not only for its array of housing alternatives but also for its dynamic communities. Students benefit from a plethora of choices. Both student residences and private dwellings offer a range of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have considerably lowered travel costs for university trips. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these modes vary depending on distance and the fare structure of each rail company. Central London houses major attractions, resulting in high living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodation in hopes of connecting with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging through private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a tough choice. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a key aspect of its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for the comfort of their homeland. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.