Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its variety of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student housing and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential rentals online, verify available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I intended to minimize travel costs since inter-zonal trips can amount to approximately £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is trickier to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural essence, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Numerous international students search for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.