Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of residing in London, I’ve gained several insights. The city is bustling, not solely due to its wide range of housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students have abundant choices available. Both student-focused and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, including features and accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, communal areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is arranged in six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fare for these services fluctuates based on distance and the pricing policy of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are attributable to its principal attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is harder to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of connection to their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and fashion boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate the essence of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.