Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this might not be an extended period, I have gathered some observations throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, offering not just a range of housing selections but also a multitude of communities. Students benefit from various options available to them. Both student residences and private flats include choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily book apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to check their prospective homes online, along with features and access to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social gatherings, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a remarkable transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card choices have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, covering areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Fortunately, going to university alongside a friend allowed us to share accommodation, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on shopping trips, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, at the heart of London’s West End, is an animated area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These highlight community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent upon individual interests and requirements. When hunting for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.