Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of my stay in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained several valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a plethora of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential residences online, along with details about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London offers an outstanding public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement throughout the various zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can surpass £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground realm, covering regions outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare 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 decided to share accommodation, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend often challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with cheaper alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time saver for errands, especially during finals.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse localities. Many international students seek the comfort of familiar surroundings from their home countries. Southall in West London is known for its substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for new accommodation in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in housing options, investigate its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.