Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although this duration is brief, I have gathered valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing choices but also its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available right in their vicinity. Both university accommodations and private housing present varied choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones vary according to distance and the pricing policy of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London arise from its major attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university led to significant savings on rent. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of familiar cultural surroundings in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian population offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in London’s West End pulsates with activity, featuring countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples illustrate just a few of the community neighborhoods available.
The most suitable areas to stay in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.