Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some perspectives. London is an energetic city, not only due to its range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students can choose from various living arrangements. Both student housing and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students find it easy to schedule apartment viewings, whereas sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students check out potential lodgings online, including their facilities and closeness to public transit.
During my search for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes moving around and traveling between zones straightforward. To lower travel expenses, since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk for short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Yet, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses in Central London are offset somewhat by sharing a room with a friend while studying, leading to significant rent savings. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite difficult. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural diversity, contributing a colorful array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the wealth of accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.