Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Even though this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve accumulated several observations throughout this time. London is an energetic city, not only due to its wide range of housing choices but also its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous possibilities. Both student residences and private housing provide a variety of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and flat shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and gauge the closeness to public transit.
In my hunt for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London has an outstanding public transport infrastructure, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to lower my travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university less costly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing model of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London significantly contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which noticeably cut our rental expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less frequent in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the accommodation landscape, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.