Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I achieved the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this time frame is relatively brief, I have gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its extensive selection of housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both student accommodations and private housing offer various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my quest for a place to reside, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each railway operator. Central London houses major landmarks, contributing to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to co-rent a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is known for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.