Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t particularly lengthy, I have gathered some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students benefit from numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private accommodations provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite baths, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective housing online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
Throughout my housing search, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies commuting and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network to outer zones. Fares for these services differ according to distance and the fare guidelines of each train operator. The high costs of living near Central London’s prime attractions are a consideration. Luckily, sharing accommodation with a friend while attending university allowed us to cut back on rent significantly. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is trickier to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is no easy feat. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, creating a colorful mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of home cultures while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music environment. Chinatown, positioned in the bustling West End of London, is a dynamic area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.