Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Even though it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its range of housing options but also for its multicultural environment. Students find numerous choices readily available. Student residences as well as private rentals include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential homes online, reviewing amenities, and locating public transport connections nearby.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding public transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and inter-zonal travel. I intended to minimize travel expenses as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, opting instead to walk over short distances instead of using a bus or tube. However, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching regions beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the pricing model of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, leading to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, yielding significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar age, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Having grocery stores in the vicinity was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, presenting diverse areas. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population with 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 features an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing options, venture into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.