Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy period, I have garnered a few observations along the way. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its extensive housing choices but also because of its varied communities. Students have a wide array of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings of apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, along with details on facilities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to lease a room in Central London to stay near key sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel costs since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commutes to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, accessing zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structures of each train operator. The popularity of major attractions in Central London leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, notably cutting down on rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds, a combination less probable in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London shines with its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End offers a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate merely a few examples of community areas.
The most suitable places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing alternatives, discover cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.