Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While this period may seem brief, I have gathered various observations during my time here. London is a vibrant city, attributed not only to its wide array of housing choices but also to its multicultural populace. Students have plenty of selections available to them. Both university housing and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential housing options online, including the facilities available and ease of access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room rental in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, lively social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal transit can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I made the choice to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, accessing zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on the distance traveled and the particular fare system of each train operating company. The significant presence of major attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share accommodation, which significantly lowered our rent. I was inclined towards intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London play a vital role in its cultural richness, showcasing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant enclave brimming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace its diversity and abundance of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.