Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months living in London. Although this is not an extensive period, I have gathered some perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its various living arrangements but also for its rich array of communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, along with features and distance to public transport.
As I searched for my living space, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most central. London has a fantastic transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel and navigation between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix that tends to be challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time when running errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural makeup, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students pursue a sense of familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate just a few community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London vary based on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.