Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have gathered a few observations during my stay. London is a vibrant city, not only because of its varied housing choices but also due to its communities. Students have numerous options right at their fingertips. Student residences and private housing provide a range of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my hunt for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to notable attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a commendable transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can accumulate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The living expenses in central London are elevated due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a mix that is harder to find in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.