Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired various insights throughout my time here. London is a vibrant city, not just for its array of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I intended to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel among zones. I aimed to keep my travel expenses low as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have greatly diminished commuting costs for university trips. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly lowered rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home countries. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area replete with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of neighborhood communities.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When in pursuit of a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vitality of this extraordinary city.