Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gleaned some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its diverse range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Whether student residences or private lodgings, options include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can promptly arrange viewings for flats, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations digitally, examine available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aspired to secure a room in Central London to remain near 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 offers a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. However, oyster card systems have made travel to the university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside Central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I had a preference for intercollegiate student housing, eager to connect with peers from various backgrounds, a blend that is tougher to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek out the comfort of their home cultures. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.