Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although it’s not a long duration, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, complete with their amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between different zones. To keep travel expenses down, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commutes to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with its Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples showcasing community neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new home, take advantage of London’s diverse housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.