Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t a long time, it has imparted significant lessons. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its diverse housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have an array of choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, complete with their features and nearness to public transport.
As I sought a place to reside, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the core areas. London features a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones easy. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a companion allowed us to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination harder to come by in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a taste of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.