Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I have gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings present varieties such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport options.
In my quest for suitable living arrangements, I focused on a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, considering that traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, connecting to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structures of individual train companies. The steep living costs in Central London can be attributed to its prominent attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, something that would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural dynamics, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students strive to find solace in familiar surroundings 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, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, right in the center of London’s West End, serves as a bustling hub filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as mere examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for habitation in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When embarking on your search for a new abode in London, revel in the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.