Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t a lengthy duration, I have gathered a few observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not solely by its wide range of housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Student accommodations and private residences offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective rentals online, examine facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, leisure venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies travel and navigation between zones. For me, minimizing travel expenses was essential, as commuting between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options 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. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion enabled us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend more difficult to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are pivotal to its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire a sense of familiarity with their homelands. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The suitable areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new dwelling in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.