Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear to be an extensive duration, I have absorbed a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its array of housing choices but also because of its rich diversity of communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while students from abroad can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, examine amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I preferred a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since inter-zonal fares can rise to £5.25 per day. Instead of using the bus or tube, I opted to walk short distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The central area’s major attractions contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that is more difficult to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, delivering a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End is filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich areas.
Optimal living areas in London differ based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for accommodation in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.