Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide array of housing choices but also by its eclectic communities. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips. Both university-provided housing and private lodgings feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment showings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to view prospective accommodations online, evaluate facilities, and estimate distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I focused on finding a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify movement and travel between various zones. I aimed to keep transport expenses low, as traveling between zones could cost up to £5.25 a day. Hence, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the city center. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each rail company. The high living expenses in Central London are influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, which drastically lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek comfort from their native countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locality filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.