Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired various insights throughout my time here. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its extensive range of housing choices but also for its multicultural populace. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both university residences and private housing provide a spectrum of possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, review available facilities, and evaluate nearby public transport links.
While searching for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to main landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making inter-zone travel convenient. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel costs, as crossing zones can lead to expenses of up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university considerably more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The key attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which greatly lowered the rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, as it provided an opportunity to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s often harder to locate in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural framework, presenting a colorful mix of diverse areas. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall, in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. At the core of London’s West End, Chinatown offers a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the variety and wealth of its accommodation choices, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.