Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
As I recently marked nine months of residing in London, I’ve gleaned valuable insights during this period, despite it seeming relatively short. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its diverse housing selections but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options at their disposal. Both student residences and private accommodations offer a variety of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
In my quest for accommodations, I specifically sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London’s transit system, which encompasses the underground, buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between different zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zone journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The central region’s popular attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with classmates from a variety of backgrounds and the same age group, which can be more difficult to find in private accommodations.
Living near grocery stores was essential for my convenience. Major supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s cultural communities form an essential part of its identity, creating a rich assortment of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a touch of their homeland in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and shops selling traditional attire. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, presents a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-based neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are contingent upon personal preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for new accommodations in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.