Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have accumulated various insights during this time. London is an energetic city, not only regarding its wide range of housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both university accommodation and private rentals offer selections including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential rentals online, detailing the amenities available and access to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an exemplary transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 each day. Instead of taking the bus or tube, I decided to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside of central London. The fares for these services rely on the distance traveled and each train company’s pricing structure. The significant attractions in central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the choice to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to find in private accommodations.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a significant challenge. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural essence, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home nations. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively musical atmosphere. Chinatown, at the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent only a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for new accommodation in London, cherish the diversity and depth of its housing choices, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.