Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only in its varied housing possibilities but also in its multicultural populations. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student residences and private lodgings feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house-sharing arrangements. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to search for potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system—featuring the underground, buses, and trains—that facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To economize on travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for trips between zones, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have decreased commuting costs for university-related travel. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare arrangements of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are balanced by attending university with a friend, as sharing a room significantly lowered rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less common in private housing.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, providing a wide array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling district with plenty of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new home, take advantage of London’s broad range of accommodation choices, delve into cultural hotspots, and relish the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.