Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a long time, I have gained some valuable perspectives during this duration. London is a bustling metropolis, rich not only in its varied housing options but also in its multifaceted communities. Students have a wide array of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite baths, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to check out their potential homes online, along with details about the facilities and their distance to public transport.
In my hunt for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Still, oyster card options have eased commuting for university. Furthermore, 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 depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to numerous major attractions, leading to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, intending to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to encounter in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was vital for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies reduces the time spent on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities represent a crucial element of its cultural tapestry, showcasing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity in London that mirrors their homeland. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.