Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although it’s a brief time frame, I’ve gleaned some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide array of housing choices but also its rich cultural diversity. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student residences and private lodgings feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to keep myself near key sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London offers an outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which may soar to £5.25 daily for crossing zones, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and the fare structure of each train service. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to share accommodation, greatly lowering rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to supermarkets was essential for me. Popular grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time for errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London form a crucial part of its cultural fabric, presenting a wide range of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comforts of their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling region with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural activities. These represent just a few instances of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its accommodation types, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.