Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gathered a fair amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its variety of housing choices but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both university housing and independent accommodations provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future living arrangements online, review facilities, and gauge their closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, options available via an oyster card have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones situated outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare model of each train operator. The prominent attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, having a friend in university allowed us to share accommodation, greatly reducing rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from varying backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly chains like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errand running, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood in London presents its own set of challenges. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for aspects of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the vibrant heart of London’s West End, is an animated locale filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When hunting for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.