Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I completed nine months of residency in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy period, I have gained extensive knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its variety of housing selections but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a wide range of options readily available. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite or suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their future living spaces online, complete with amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London’s transport network is exceptional, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize transportation expenses, as traveling between zones can reach as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced the cost of commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary with distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living costs in Central London stem from its many attractions. Luckily, I was enrolled at university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is harder to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are key elements of its cultural landscape, creating diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of home in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End features a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These highlight just a few of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London depend on your preferences and requirements. While seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.