Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear lengthy, I have gained several insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its plethora of housing choices but also due to its varied communities. Students are presented with an abundance of options. Student housing and private rentals come with different choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including the facilities available and their distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which allows for smooth navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structures of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is complex. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, offering a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students look for the comfort of their home cultures while in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and thriving music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.