Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have acquired some understanding. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its various housing choices but also by its multicultural communities. Students find an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing present selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment visits, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my hunt for living arrangements, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London has an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I desired to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing framework of each train operator. The high living costs associated with Central London’s major attractions are noteworthy. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, substantially decreasing our rent. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations, hopeful to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was of utmost importance to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies preserves time during errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic enclaves are vital to its cultural identity, offering a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the semblance of their native country. Southall, located in West London, is home to a prominent South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling district equipped with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. While on the quest for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.