Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. While this is a brief period, I’ve acquired several insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only due to its various housing options but also because of its thriving communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings come with options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and communal housing. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential accommodations online, assessing amenities, and locating nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation around the city and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, options like the Oyster card have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones situated outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these options vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London hosts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored residing in intercollegiate student residences, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during peak exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London pursue a sense of familiarity with their home country. Southall in West London features a vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.