Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I’ve gathered several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present a range of possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to remotely assess potential accommodations, including the amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social scenes, and crucially, Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s stellar transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel across these zones. I aspired to lower travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I preferred walking shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect beyond the Underground network, extending to areas outside central London. Costs for inter-zone rides on these services vary based on the distance and fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London can be attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly cut down on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, weaving a rich fabric of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on your preferences and needs. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of the city’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.