Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a vast duration, I have accumulated some observations. London is a bustling metropolis, known not just for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students can find plenty of alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, including features and proximity to public transit.
In seeking a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to traverse and travel between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as journeys across zones can amount to £5.25 daily. Instead of taking the bus or the tube, I chose to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing model of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are driven by the abundance of major attractions. Thankfully, studying with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the opportunity to meet students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being located near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, in addition to more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Picking a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.