Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for its rich communities. Students have numerous choices readily available. Both student residences and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation infrastructure, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal transport can amount to £5.25 each day. Therefore, I opted to walk for shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare system. Central London hosts numerous major attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I shared a room with a friend at university, which allowed us to significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complicated task. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting various neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. In the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary according to individual tastes and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vitality of this extraordinary city.