Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not seem lengthy, I’ve gathered several observations throughout my stay. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodations, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London features an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal commuting can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances over taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, seeking to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often more elusive in private rentals.
Residing near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood for residence can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall, located 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 recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to live in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new place to settle in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.