Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its diverse housing options but also because of its flourishing communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, check available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for smooth navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I preferred to minimize travel costs, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have considerably lowered university commute costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones further from central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I started university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly alleviated rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall, in West London, is home to a large South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling district featuring a variety of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.