Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered some observations throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not only for its wide-ranging housing selections but also for its culturally rich communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing include amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore potential housing online, including details on offered amenities and nearness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I set out to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transit can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside the central area. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London, being the hub of major attractions, results in elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, considerably lowering rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less common in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. The prevalent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having nearby essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the lively West End of London, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.