Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might appear brief, I’ve acquired various perspectives throughout this period. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its wide array of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Options for both student housing and private accommodation include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shared arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including their features and proximity to public transportation.
In my hunt for living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 per day. Instead of taking the bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. However, oyster card options have helped make university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London drive up living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room and significantly reduce rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar age, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, supplemented by more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies in close proximity saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural diversity, showcasing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall in West London has a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The prime areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace its diverse and enriching accommodation choices, explore various cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.