Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit a nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I’ve gathered several observations during this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not just by its various housing types but also its multicultural demographics. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer various alternatives including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential rentals online, evaluate the facilities, and consider their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing seamless movement and travel across zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transport costs can escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of using buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zone. Rates for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of individual train operators. Major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly alleviating rental costs. I favor intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s trickier to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery outlets was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, providing a rich mosaic of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native culture. Southall in West London showcases a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the bustling West End of London is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, boutiques, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for new accommodations in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.