Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a long duration, it has been filled with significant learning experiences. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only because of its diverse housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a myriad of choices right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature offerings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Resident students can readily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, assess amenities, and determine their distance from public transport.
In my apartment hunt, I aimed for a room situated in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The metropolis is categorized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can be costly, reaching up to £5.25 daily. I preferred to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, options such as the oyster card have significantly reduced commuting costs for university students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for travel between zones fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London is home to many major attractions, driving up living expenses. Thankfully, I had the opportunity to attend university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rent costs. I selected intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a mix that is often elusive in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time during errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, culminating in varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students pursue an environment reminiscent of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, in the West End of London, is an animated area featuring Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When embarking on your search for a new home in London, delve into the variety and depth of its accommodation alternatives, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.