Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I achieved the nine-month mark of residing in London. Though this duration may not be extensive, I have gathered some observations. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its variety of housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students have a broad range of choices available. Both student housing and private residences provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential residences online, including their features and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel and navigation between zones. Personally, I aimed to limit travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds, a combination less probable in private residences.
Living near grocery shops was imperative for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural diversity, creating a rich tapestry of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.