Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have gained quite a lot of experience. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its array of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a wide range of options available to them. The selections include student residences to private housing, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared arrangements, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential lodgings online, checking facilities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay near significant attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than use public transport. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail networks extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares differ based on distance traveled and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are driven by its main attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less prevalent in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets, such as grocery stores and pharmacies, streamlines the time spent on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a vivid spectrum of different neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End boasts multiple Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few illustrations of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary depending on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home, embrace London’s variety of accommodation options, delve into cultural hubs, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.