Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not just for its accommodation variety but also for its multicultural communities. Students have abundant options right at their fingertips. Both university housing and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and housemates. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess facilities, and access public transport links.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since moving between zones can be as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend their reach beyond the Underground network, covering zones that lie outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s specific fare structure. The high costs of living near Central London’s main attractions are a notable factor. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to split a room, resulting in considerable rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is a blend that is often harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood is not an easy task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for a semblance of home. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean inhabitants and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant area bustling with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of neighborhood communities.
The optimal locations to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the ease and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.