Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although this may not seem like a long time, I have gathered some valuable observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its assorted housing options but also for its multicultural populace. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, individual and shared rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, check the amenities offered, and evaluate the locations in relation to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, vibrant social spaces, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London possesses an exceptional public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make navigating and traveling between zones simple. I sought to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal transit can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zones. The fares for traveling across these zones differ based on the distance traveled and each train company’s pricing structure. The central attractions of London contribute to the overall high cost of living. Thankfully, studying with a friend allowed us to split a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is often more challenging to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse districts. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its available options, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.