Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extended period, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its array of housing choices but also its multifaceted communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student housing and private residences feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, including amenities and public transport accessibility.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London’s public transport system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, promotes straightforward navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, services like London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policy of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, studying with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, considerably lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is rarer 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 options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having quick access to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a taste of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new place in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.