Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months in London. Although it might not seem extensive, I have acquired several observations during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its range of living arrangements but also for its multicultural population. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring possible lodgings online, along with amenities provided and distance to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social centres, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since cross-zone commuting can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of hopping on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground reach, connecting areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London are a factor in the high cost of living. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to split a room, dramatically decreasing rent. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic groups are crucial to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse communities. Numerous international students seek connections to their home nations in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, relish the diversity and wealth of accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and take pleasure in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.