Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have numerous local choices. Both student accommodations and private housing present various options, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, including amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my housing quest, I sought a room in Central London to remain near major sights, social spaces, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of taking the bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commutes to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services span areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure set by each train company. Central London is home to significant attractions, which escalates living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been trickier through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural landscape, creating varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a touch of their home country’s familiarity in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and bustling music scene. Chinatown in the West End provides a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples reflect just a fraction of the community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London will depend on your interests and requirements. When searching for a new abode, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.