Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration might not seem significant, it has provided me with valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its diverse accommodation choices but also owing to its multiple communities. Students have a wide array of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily set up apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, including details on amenities and their distance from public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and transit between zones. Personally, I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can total up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for these services differ depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which considerably lessened our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.