Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this is a brief period, I have gained several insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its range of housing choices but also by its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student accommodations and private housing feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, assess the facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates straightforward navigation throughout the city and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have lowered commuting expenses for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services traverse areas beyond the Underground network, extending outward from central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in central London are attributed to its major landmarks. Thankfully, I shared a room with a university friend, which considerably reduced rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, something that would have been more challenging through private residences.
It was essential for me to live close to grocery stores. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural makeup, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music ambiance. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.