Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a long duration, I have gathered several observations throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a vast array of selections available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer multiple alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and personal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential housing online, alongside the amenities provided and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The transport network in London, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The notable attractions in Central London contribute to the high living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. The common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, offers a bustling hub filled with various Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of vibrant community areas.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new living space in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.