Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained some perspectives during my stay. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Student residences and private rentals present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and flat shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, along with the amenities provided and their proximity to public transportation.
In my pursuit of a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most pivotal. London features an excellent public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal transit, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching regions beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to split a room, greatly cutting down on rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student residences, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend less common in private accommodations.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Well-known supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London play an integral role in its cultural tapestry, providing a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.