Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not be an extended period, I’ve accumulated a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, famous not only for its extensive array of housing options but also for its rich cultural diversity. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide a variety of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review the amenities provided, and identify the closest public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize my commuting expenses since traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I chose to walk short distances. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university much more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operating company. The high living costs in Central London’s popular areas can be daunting. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to dwell in poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Many international students seek familiarity with their homeland. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is noted for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave brimming with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation selections, explore the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.