Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its variety of accommodation options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices readily available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, complete with details on amenities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s superb transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operating company. The high living costs in Central London are due to its main attractions. Thankfully, I shared living expenses with a friend from university, which helped us significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students appreciate finding aspects of their home country within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End boasts numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are dictated by your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, welcome the rich diversity of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.