Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not just for its extensive housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both university accommodations and private housing offer a variety of choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential places online, review facilities, and evaluate their distance from public transit.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to get around and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The charges for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare system. The high living costs near central London’s main attractions can be a challenge. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country within London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal residential areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new living space in London, appreciate the variety and depth of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.