Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although this may seem brief, I have gathered several observations throughout this time. London vibrates with life, not only due to its extensive housing choices but also because of its multicultural enclaves. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, check available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes traversing and traveling between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can accumulate to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground scope, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the pricing system of each train operator. Living costs are elevated near Central London’s main attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a dilemma. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, providing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for the comforts of home in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.