Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While it may appear brief, I’ve acquired several observations throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not just for its wide range of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students find an abundance of choices close by. Both student residences and private lodgings present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, examine amenities, and locate nearby transport links.
During my hunt for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London, seeking proximity to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s outstanding public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I was keen to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short routes instead of taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the center of London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its numerous attractions. Luckily, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and a similar age group, a mix that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural mosaic, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their native culture within London. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End serves as a bustling hub filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.