Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. Although it’s a brief span, I’ve gathered a few observations during this time. London is a dynamic city, not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its bustling communities. Students have numerous options available to them. The offerings in student housing and private rentals include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, complete with details about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transportation system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zone journeys can amount to £5.25 a day. Instead of relying on a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university trips more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones that lie outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I joined a university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized 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 eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples represent just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.