Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this may not be an extensive period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide range of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Whether opting for student accommodations or private rentals, choices abound including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore potential housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest to find a place to stay, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two considered the most central. London’s transport network, featuring the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Still, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each railway company. The high costs of living near Central London’s prime attractions are unavoidable. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation and significantly cut down on rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private residences.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having convenience stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, contributing to a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a touch of familiarity in London akin to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on personal interests and needs. When on the lookout for a new location in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.