Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While this duration may not seem lengthy, I have accumulated valuable experiences throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its various housing alternatives but also by its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective residences online, complete with their features and distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, my objective was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for seamless movement and travel between zones. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses, as journeys across zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fare prices for these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high costs of living in Central London stem from its numerous attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared accommodation, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollege housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, something that would have been tougher to manage with private rentals.
It was essential for me to live close to grocery stores. Common supermarket chains feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own set of challenges. The ethnic communities of London are a core part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of connection to their native countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizeable South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and its vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.