Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve gleaned some valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its diverse communities. Students find themselves with numerous choices. Both student residences and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students view potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I focused on securing a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables smooth navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, options with an oyster card have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The significant attractions in Central London elevate living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps streamline errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of communal neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods for accommodation in London are contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for your new home in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.