Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a significant duration, I’ve acquired considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, showcasing features and closeness to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to lease a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the tariff structure of various train operators. The high living expenses in central London stem from its vast attractions. Fortunately, going to university with a friend allowed us to split a room, considerably lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a demographic mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, providing a diverse range of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a taste of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, thrums with energy through its abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent merely a fraction of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for new housing in London, cherish the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.