Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary living in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide-ranging housing options but also by its rich tapestry of communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Options in student accommodations and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential places online, checking the amenities and transportation accessibility.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures easy mobility across zones. I focused on minimizing travel costs as crossing zones can accumulate to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. However, options like the Oyster card have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare schemes of the respective train providers. The high living expenses in Central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s trickier to find in private housing.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of London’s housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.