Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not be an extended period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student residences and private housing offer a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily book apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore accommodation possibilities online, review amenities, and assess their distance from public transport.
During my hunt for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transit system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I wanted to minimize my travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London, being home to significant landmarks, tends to have high living costs. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, so we made the decision to share a room, which significantly cut our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging in private residences.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is quite a challenging task. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural diversity, creating a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London often seek the comfort of their home culture. Southall in West London has a prominent South Asian community, with a variety of Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the vibrant West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of culturally rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.