Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this period may seem short, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London thrives as a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its extensive housing choices but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students are presented with numerous options right around them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide a range of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and communal living arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, examine amenities, and access public transport information.
During my quest for housing, I targeted a room in Central London to remain near main attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones may cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Tickets for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of individual train companies. Central London houses numerous prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Proximity to fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, contributing to diverse localities. Numerous international students seek comfort and familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight just a few of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.