Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While it may seem like a brief period, I’ve acquired several perspectives throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by the diverse communities that inhabit it. Students have a multitude of alternatives available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer numerous choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, individual and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, complete with details about available amenities and their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to move and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to limit my travel expenses, as commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The expenses of living in Central London are significantly inflated due to its key attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines the process of running errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in presents a significant challenge. London’s ethnic communities play an integral role in its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their native country. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are influenced by personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to call home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the conveniences and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.