Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the milestone of living in London for nine months. While nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a dynamic city, appreciated not only for its varied accommodation choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an array of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing present choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studios, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, review amenities, and gauge distance to public transportation.
During my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay near major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an excellent transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel could cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than opt for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses in Central London can be attributed to its major attractions. Thankfully, studying at university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, resulting in substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations in order to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies within reach saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich diversity of neighbourhoods. Most international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a vibrant enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.