Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Although this period is relatively brief, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its varied housing alternatives but also for its lively communities. There are numerous options available to students. Student residences and private accommodations provide various choices, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future living arrangements online, review amenities, and evaluate the proximity to public transport.
In my search for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London’s transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation across the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare system of each train operator. The steep living costs in central London stem from its primary attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, is known for its large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace its diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.