Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not too long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While this may seem brief, I have absorbed a fair amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its wide range of housing possibilities but also for its multicultural communities. Students find numerous options in the vicinity. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential rentals on the internet, examine facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city organizes itself into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate easy movement across different zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as commuting between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made traveling to the university cheaper. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Tube network, stretching into zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and individual train companies’ fare structures. Central London, with its major attractions, results in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly alleviated our rent burden. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to come by in private accommodations.
Living near supermarkets was a priority for me. Popular grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse localities. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant area filled with an array of Chinese dining options, retail stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a selection of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, embrace the richness and variety of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.