Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, it has provided me with valuable observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its diverse communities. Students are presented with a plethora of options. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
In my search for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city is equipped with an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which aids in seamless navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones could amount to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the specific fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we made the choice to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, an aspect less likely to be found in private housing.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit is no simple task. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a connection to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely several instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, relish the diversity and abundance of its accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.