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 be a long duration, I have acquired some perspectives. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its array of housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, verify available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, vibrant social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a remarkable transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel between different zones. I specifically sought to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The main attractions in Central London contribute to the elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to basic stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complicated task. The ethnic communities in London are pivotal to its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look to find a piece of their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the bustling West End of London, is a dynamic area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.