Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it’s a short span, I’ve gained valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students find an abundance of choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, detailing facilities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for suitable housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains that make traversing and traveling between zones easy. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. 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 fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare models of each train provider. Central London hosts major attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, a friend and I attended university together, and we opted to share a room, resulting in significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, an arrangement that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near indispensable stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity from their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.