Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this may seem brief, I have gathered some perspectives during this period. London is a dynamic city, notable not just for its wide variety of accommodation settings but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing present selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including features and proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, my objective was to find a room in Central London, keeping me close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a robust transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to cut down on travel expenses since crossing zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Yet, oyster card options have significantly decreased the commuting costs for university. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach into areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare set by each train operator. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more difficult to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves substantial time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for elements reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London features a large South Asian population, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of communal neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. As you search for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.