Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Though this may not seem extensive, I have acquired various insights throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its extensive housing options but also due to its multicultural communities. Students benefit from numerous available choices. Student accommodations and private housing feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students residing at home can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, verify the amenities available, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
During my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to lower travel expenses since traveling between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The presence of significant attractions in Central London contributes to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, drastically cutting down on rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood is difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural makeup, providing a rich blend of diverse areas. Numerous international students seek a taste of familiarity from their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and needs. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.