Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. While this may seem brief, I have made some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its myriad housing choices but also because of its eclectic mix of communities. Students find themselves with a plethora of options. Whether it’s student residences or private rentals, there are choices for ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential accommodations online, complete with details on available amenities and transport links.
During my quest for housing, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones straightforward. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize buses or tubes. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, drastically reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to achieve in private rentals.
For me, being near grocery stores was vital. Popular supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, providing a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a connection to their home countries within London. Southall, in West London, is home to a sizeable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. In South London, Brixton stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.