Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have gained significant insights. London is an energetic city, recognized not just for its range of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student lodgings and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my endeavor to find suitable accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which can be harder to find in private properties.
Living near grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural depth, offering varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and needs. While looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural communities, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.