Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of living in London. While this duration is relatively brief, I have acquired various insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its array of housing selections but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer facilities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to inspect prospective lodgings online, evaluate amenities, and gauge accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to main attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport system, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and travel between different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have lessened the cost of commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare structure of each rail company. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled at university alongside a friend and we shared a room, allowing us to save considerably on rent. I preferred shared student residences to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be demanding. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing various neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal preferences and necessities. When hunting for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and variety of accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and energy of this remarkable city.