Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, I’ve gained some perspectives during my stay. London is a dynamic city, not merely due to its extensive housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students have plenty of alternatives right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private accommodations provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my housing search, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit infrastructure, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can soar to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services travel outside the Underground network, covering areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these networks fluctuate based on distance and the fare frameworks of each rail company. The significant tourist appeal of Central London contributes to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate accommodation to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, an opportunity that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being close to necessary shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural dimension, creating a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of familiarity from their native countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.