Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve accumulated considerable experience in that time, despite it being a relatively short duration. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing choices and multicultural neighborhoods. Students are afforded a multitude of options. Both student housing and private rentals include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future accommodations online, review available facilities, and evaluate access to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric rings, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s public transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day, so I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside the core of London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing system of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred accommodations that promote intercollegiate engagement to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, which would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Having easy access to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand running, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, leading to a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek out environments that resemble their home nations. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London boasts a vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is famous for its multitude of Chinese dining places, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. As you search for a new residence in London, take in its varied housing choices, explore its cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.