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, it has allowed me to gather various insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its extensive accommodation choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have plenty of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize viewings of apartments, whereas sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, including facilities and accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 per day. Instead of utilizing the bus or tube, I chose to stroll short distances. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for cross-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London houses many iconic attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Luckily, I started university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, which significantly cut down our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a diversity that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op were available, along with budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores, including supermarkets and pharmacies, within reach saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural richness, creating a varied mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for the familiarity of their native lands in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area offering countless Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are influenced by personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.