Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not appear as an extensive duration, I have gathered some valuable observations throughout this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just in terms of its varied housing options but also for the communities that reside within it. Students are presented with numerous alternatives available to them. Both student housing and private rentals offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, check available facilities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
During my pursuit of a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal rides can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced university commute costs. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare configuration. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which substantially lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that would be trickier to find in private residences.
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their home cultures. Southall, situated in West London, is known for its substantial South Asian population and features an abundance of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with a wide variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, cherish the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.