Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I have gained several insights during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its variety of housing opportunities but also by its vibrant communities. Students are presented with a wealth of options. Both university housing and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite facilities, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared accommodations. Local students can easily schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, along with available amenities and access to public transport.
During my housing hunt, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground system, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure of each rail operator. The cost of living near Central London’s prime attractions tends to be considerably high. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings, anticipating an opportunity to connect with students from various backgrounds within the same age range—a combination that is more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Having grocery stores in close proximity was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on everyday tasks, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural essence, creating a rich landscape of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a connection to their home country. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to inhabit in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.