Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not be a long time, I have acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide array of housing options but also because of its multicultural populace. Students have a plethora of selections available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, including available features and proximity to public transit.
During my quest for a residence, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, wherein zones one and two are the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between the zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to as much as £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network into areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s pricing structure. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodations, greatly lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural makeup, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures while in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London boasts an Afro-Caribbean community and a dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a handful of community-based neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.