Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the completion of nine months residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gathered some valuable experiences during this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized by its plentiful housing options and its multicultural assemblies. Students encounter a variety of selections available to them. Both university housing and private rentals offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and communal living arrangements. Home students can easily set up apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective housing online, inclusive of the facilities provided and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transit network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, since travelling between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. Consequently, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card choices have made commuting to university considerably more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s specific fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing, eager to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examinations.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native culture. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London vary depending on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its rental options, explore cultural hubs, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.