Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t particularly long, I have accumulated some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide variety of housing options, but also because of its multicultural populations. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide various types such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, review the available amenities, and evaluate distances to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London in order to be close to major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling smooth movement and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The multitude of major attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend more elusive in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a rich assortment of unique neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their native culture. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples merely scratch the surface of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locales for living in London vary depending on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for new accommodations in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, investigate cultural hubs, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.