Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear to be a long time, I’ve accumulated some valuable experiences during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its assorted housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives at their disposal. Both student residences and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential dwellings online, review available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it convenient to navigate around and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more challenging with private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire the comfort of their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are only a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London depend on personal tastes and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.