Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration isn’t particularly long, I’ve gained a considerable amount of insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its various housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous options. Both university housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in examining potential residences online, alongside the amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London flaunts an impressive transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London presents major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I was attending university along with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and same age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a difficult choice. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, showcasing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for familiarity with their home culture. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and richness of its housing offers, explore cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.