Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of residing in London, I have gained some insights, albeit my time here is still relatively short. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting an array of housing options and communities. Students have numerous choices right at their fingertips, with options for both student accommodations and private rentals including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and connect with public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I aimed for a room located in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation throughout the city. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, which led me to walk shorter distances. Utilizing Oyster card options has made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside the central zones. Inter-zone travel fares fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare structure of the various train companies. The high living costs in Central London can be attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, I have a university friend with whom I shared accommodation, leading to considerable savings on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and of similar age, a feat that would have been more challenging in private housing.
Being close to grocery shops was vital for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities within London are core to its cultural identity, contributing to a variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and fashion stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, positioned in London’s West End, features an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples merely scratch the surface of the community neighbourhoods available.
The ideal places to live in London depend on individual interests and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this exceptional city has to offer.