Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months in London. Though it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained significant insights. London is bustling, featuring a range of housing options and communities. Students can select from various accommodations, including student residences, private rentals, ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can access platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the tube, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily, prompting me to walk shorter distances rather than use buses or the tube. Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London, with fares dependent on distance and train operator. The high living costs around Central London’s prominent attractions were somewhat mitigated by sharing a room with a friend. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which might not be the case with private rentals.
Having nearby grocery stores was vital for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential elements of its cultural identity, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiar experiences in London. Southall in West London boasts a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End features Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.