Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not be an extended timeframe, I have gleaned several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its wide array of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students benefit from an abundance of options. Both student accommodations and private residences offer arrangements such as ensuite facilities, suite bathrooms, shared living spaces, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore available housing online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room rental in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social centres, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), bus services, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can tally up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have lessened university commutes’ financial burden. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services vary based on distance and the fare policies of individual train operators. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly decrease the rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is typically rarer in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London form a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London often seek a connection to their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. In the core of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London will depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.