Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While this duration may not appear significant, I have accumulated several observations along the way. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its multicultural environments. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student housing and private accommodations offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible housing online, along with the features and accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and commuting between zones. I sought to lower travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made getting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending outside of central London. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The high costs associated with living near Central London’s major attractions are notable. Luckily, having a friend attend university with me allowed us to split a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred accommodations that catered to intercollegiate students to connect with individuals from various backgrounds, a combination that’s harder to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes the time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, creating diverse areas. Numerous international students look for familiar surroundings within London. Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London boasts an Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End is a vibrant zone filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples showcasing community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London vary based on individual preferences and requirements. As you search for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.