Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its eclectic housing possibilities but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, verify available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
During my housing search, my goal was to find a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between different zones. I preferred to limit travel expenses as going between zones could amount to £5.25 daily. Instead, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, options such as the oyster card have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. The prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The presence of major attractions in Central London leads to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I had a university friend to share a room with, significantly lowering our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less common in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are central to its cultural diversity, presenting a vast variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home cultures within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in London’s West End is an energetic locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just some instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for new accommodation in London, embrace the city’s diverse housing options, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.