Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this might not seem extensive, I’ve gathered valuable observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not just for its diverse housing options but also for its array of communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both university residences and private housing present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to investigate their prospective homes online, including amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I was targeting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel and navigation between zones. I aimed to keep my travel expenses low since moving between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. Instead of utilizing buses or the tube for short distances, I chose to walk. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside of the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Travel costs for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare system. The significant attractions in Central London lead to increased living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to cohabit, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery shops was vital for me. Regular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to live in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and depth of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.