Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration might appear brief, I’ve gathered some valuable observations throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its extensive variety of housing options but also for its rich multicultural communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Both university-managed accommodations and private rentals offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, examine available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to secure a room for rent in Central London to be near significant landmarks, bustling social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I decided to stroll short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The principal attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lessening our rent obligations. I preferred shared student accommodations, hoping to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to encounter in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Picking a neighbourhood in London can be tough. The city’s diverse ethnic groups are fundamental to its cultural depth, presenting a rich assortment of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, retailers, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal tastes and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the ease and thrill of this exceptional city.