Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem like a lengthy time, I’ve gained several observations throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just for its wide array of housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer different choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private rooms and shared spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to explore their prospective homes online, including details on amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s robust transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and commuting across various zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. As a result, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the specific fare policies of each train company. Central London boasts major attractions, which drives living expenses up. Fortunately, going to university alongside a friend allowed us to split a room, significantly reducing our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
I prioritized living near grocery stores. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like grocery stores and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their home cultures within London. Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to stay in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.