Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students find numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both student residence and private housing present a wide array of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, verify amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has a superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares could go up to £5.25 daily, opting to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes less costly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing policy of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and necessities. When on the hunt for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and abundance of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.