Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While that might not seem extensive, I have gathered several observations throughout this time. London is a vibrant city, known not only for its diverse housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer various options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to inspect prospective lodgings online, assess available amenities, and locate the closest public transport links.
In my pursuit of housing, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent transit system, including the tube, buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to reduce my travel expenses as inter-zone journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The significant tourist spots in Central London lead to high living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse communities are an integral aspect of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the comfort of their home country. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. In the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for accommodation in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When searching for new lodging in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.