Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve come to realize that this period, although seemingly brief, has offered me valuable perspectives. London brims with energy, not just because of its wide-ranging housing options but also due to its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both university-managed housing and private rentals provide an array of possibilities, including ensuite and suite restrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective housing online, complete with their amenities and distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to be near key sights, social hubs, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six layered zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across the zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily. To do this, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered uni commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fare for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was able to attend university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a mix that’s often difficult to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, complemented by budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural landscape, offering a vibrant blend of diverse areas. Many international students look for touches of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on your interests and needs. While searching for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural pockets, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.