Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gathered various insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its rich array of housing options but also for its multiculturalism. Students find themselves with a wealth of choices available. Both student residences and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, showcasing amenities and their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones representing the core. London’s transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and commute between zones. Personally, I aimed to keep travel expenses minimal since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, options like oyster cards have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground jurisdiction, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to split a room, greatly alleviating rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination harder to achieve in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite difficult. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its societal landscape, providing a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for a taste of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean cultural influence and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the extraordinary diversity and abundance of housing choices, explore cultural niches, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.