Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently reached the milestone of nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students find numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private housing present choices such as ensuite bathrooms and suite setups, shared rooms, private quarters, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can efficiently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, evaluate amenities, and consider proximity to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London offers an outstanding transport system, featuring the tube, buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside of central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance traveled and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s often more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music ambiance. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic district filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. As you search for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation selections, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.