Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months in London. Although this may seem brief, I have gathered various observations. London is a vibrant city, not only for its range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. There are countless options available for students. Both student accommodations and private rentals include facilities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective living spaces online, assess the amenities, and determine their distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, vibrant social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London boasts an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on both distance and the pricing policy of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, which results in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I went to university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred student accommodations that foster interaction with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with less expensive options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their native country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London will vary according to your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.