Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, I have amassed some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, appealing for its wide range of housing options and its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, 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, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, opting instead to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Fortunately, oyster card offerings have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fare costs for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structures of the respective train operating companies. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, significantly lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with less expensive options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students seek a connection to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.