Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have acquired several perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students find themselves with a myriad of options. Both student housing and private rentals offer facilities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange for apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential residences online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for housing, my objective was to lease a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s public transport—comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates navigation and inter-zonal travel. I aimed to lessen my travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have reduced the costs of commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare pricing of individual train companies. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I went to university alongside a friend, and we decided to cohabitate, leading to substantial savings in rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to achieve in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was imperative for me. Common supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op exist, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite a challenge. London’s ethnic enclaves are essential to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native countries within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, abounds with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and necessities. While on the lookout for a new residence in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.