Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its myriad of living arrangements but also because of its heterogeneous communities. Students are presented with abundant options. Both student residences and private housing provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, including features and accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is stratified into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London features prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less prevalent in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.