Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve gathered some perspectives during this timeframe. The city is vibrant, not only because of its varied housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students enjoy a plethora of choices. Both student accommodation and private rentals feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily book apartment viewings, while international students can use platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for proximity to major sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London offers a remarkable transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I preferred walking over taking the bus or tube for short distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare scheme. The high living expenses in Central London are partly due to its main attractions. Luckily, I studied alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London play a key role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for elements of their home country in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal tastes and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.