Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe is not extensive, I have accumulated some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not only for its wide-ranging housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both university residences and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their potential living spaces online, including amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. To minimize expenses, since inter-zonal travel costs can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, serving zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The high demand near Central London’s main attractions contributes to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a companion allowed us to share accommodations, greatly decreasing rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often elusive in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was important to me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new abode in London, appreciate the richness and diversity of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.