Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration is brief, I have gathered some valuable observations. London is an energetic city, not only for its wide array of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both dormitory-style student housing and private accommodations provide options such as ensuite and suite restrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom offer international students the ability to explore prospective living spaces online, check amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
During my accommodation search, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London features a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traveling between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Still, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Pricing for these services fluctuates depending on distance and the fare systems implemented by each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are driven by the proximity to major tourist attractions. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek out the comfort of their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling hub filled with countless Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural festivities. These examples showcase only a fraction of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, immerse yourself in the variety and richness of its housing selections, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.