Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not be an extensive period, I have gathered some insights. London thrives with vibrancy, not only due to its varied housing choices but also because of its multitude of communities. Students have numerous options in the vicinity. Both shared accommodations and private housing provide various arrangements, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential homes online, assess features, and locate the closest public transport connections.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The capital is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I focused on minimizing travel expenses as inter-zonal travel could incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, services like London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network into areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures set by different train operators. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its numerous attractions. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend in university helped us considerably reduce rent expenses. I favored student accommodations that promote intercollegiate interactions to meet peers from diverse backgrounds within the same age group, a blend that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores close by was essential for me. Popular supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable chains like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their native culture in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, leverage the variety and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.