Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this might seem brief, I have gained substantial knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its range of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with countless options. Both student residences and private lodgings feature choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom provide international students the ability to browse prospective accommodations online, complete with details about amenities and their distance from public transport.
In my quest for housing, I targeted a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social scenes, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have lowered commute costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London stem from the city’s main attractions. Luckily, attending university with a companion permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as it allowed me to connect with students from various backgrounds of similar ages, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to key stores like grocery shops and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic groups are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity in London that reflects their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These examples highlight just a few of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.