Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of living in London. Though this might not seem significant, I have gained valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its multicultural environments. Students can select from numerous alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students have the ease of arranging apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, showcasing their features and proximity to public transport.
During my accommodation search, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. The fare for these services varies according to distance and the fare structure set by each train operator. The significant tourist sites in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Luckily, by sharing a room with a friend who is also attending university with me, we dramatically cut down on rent payments. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from different backgrounds and comparable ages, a combination that’s often more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The convenience of having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. The vibrant Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End offers a lively atmosphere with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These instances represent just a fraction of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. As you look for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vitality of this extraordinary city.