Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though this timeframe isn’t extensive, I’ve accumulated some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its variety of housing types but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private homes offer options such as ensuite bathrooms, suitestyle bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential rentals online, check available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I aimed for a room situated in Central London to be near major landmarks, social areas, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as trips across zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, allowing access to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, going to university with a friend permitted us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find within private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing retailers. 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 a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The finest places to reside in London are reliant on personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.