Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though this timeframe may not be extensive, I have collected several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not only for its myriad housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer diverse selections, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, including the amenities available and closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones straightforward. I aimed to keep my travel expenses down, as costs for inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London drive up living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly cutting down rental costs. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find within private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, supplemented by more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.