Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone living in London. While this duration might seem brief, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic metropolis, celebrated not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students find themselves with an abundance of choices. Options for student housing and private rentals encompass ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly coordinate apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring possible housing online, complete with details about amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my focus was on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the core. London features an exceptional transport infrastructure, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to lessen travel costs since traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, Oyster card options have made traveling to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for zone transfers on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare system. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that is less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was significant for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, supplemented by budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on chores, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a bustling locale rich with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residence in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on a home search in London, appreciate the variety and depth of its housing choices, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.