Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its diverse housing choices but also its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student digs and private lodgings present alternatives like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment inspections, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, evaluate amenities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric rings, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and rail services, which facilitates easy navigation across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. Consequently, I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card deals have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodation, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic groups play a crucial role in its cultural identity, showcasing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students find solace in neighborhoods reflective of their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, offers a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of vibrant communities.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety of housing available, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.