Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long time, I have gained valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its array of housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house-sharing arrangements. Home students can conveniently schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and check their distance from public transportation.
During my housing search, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to popular attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make navigating the city and traveling between zones easy. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing between zones can cost up to £5.25 a day. Instead of taking buses or the tube for short distances, I chose to walk. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, 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 pricing structure of each train operating company. While central London presents major attractions, living expenses are notably high. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which markedly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds in a similar age group, a feat that would have been tougher with private residences.
Having grocery stores nearby was imperative for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in poses a challenge. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural landscape, providing a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on individual preferences and needs. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.