Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a dynamic city, not only because of its vast array of housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students have numerous alternatives right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options like ensuite and suite facilities, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective homes online, reviewing amenities, and accessing public transport links.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to find a room in Central London so I could be near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system is outstanding, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to move around and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Yet, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs to the university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts significant attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would be more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital element of its cultural landscape, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.