Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this period may seem short, I’ve gathered several insights along the way. London is a bustling metropolis, not solely due to its varied housing options but also its dynamic communities. Students enjoy a plethora of choices available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals offer a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and shared housing. Home students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, check for amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London, ideally situated near prominent sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I was inclined to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to the high cost of living. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private properties.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are an integral part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.