Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its rich mix of communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives available. Both student residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, lively spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending their reach beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London’s popular attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly decreasing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups, a combination that’s less common in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores close at hand, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this extraordinary city has to offer.