Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, I have gained several valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only in terms of its wide range of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have many alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, including the facilities available and the distance to public transit.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel amongst zones. Personally, I aimed to lower my travel expenses since journeys between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I preferred walking shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, options for using an oyster card have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside central London. Tickets for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living expenses associated with Central London’s main attractions can be daunting. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly reducing our rental costs. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a blend that is often more challenging to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and shops selling traditional clothing. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed 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 many Chinese eateries, retail stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of vibrant community neighbourhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London are subjective and depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, take advantage of the city’s varied housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.