Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s a short duration, I have gathered some observations throughout this period. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing options online, along with the amenities provided and their distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six surrounding zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a fantastic transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I specifically aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 each day. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central part of London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred collegiate housing, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a tough decision. The ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural framework, presenting a rich tapestry of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home country. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and active music culture. Chinatown, located in the vibrant West End of London, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to live in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.