Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my time in London. Although this might seem like a brief period, I’ve gathered some reflections throughout this experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its array of housing alternatives but also for its multicultural populations. Students have a wealth of choices at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to preview potential housing options online, including the facilities available and how close they are to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought a room to rent in Central London to stay close to prominent sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an excellent transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and railways, making it easy to move around and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses as crossing zones can cost £5.25 on a daily basis. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made travelling to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distances and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses near Central London’s major attractions are a notable concern. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate housing, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, residing close to grocery outlets was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian presence with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with a plethora of Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural happenings. These are simply a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residence in London greatly depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.