Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago marked my nine-month milestone in London. Although nine months isn’t an extensive period, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge during this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just regarding its varied housing options but also its lively communities. Students have numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide an array of selections 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 enable international students to explore their future homes online, check available amenities, and assess their distance from public transport.
While looking for a place to reside, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to lower my travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university considerably more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, expanding to regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the specific fare structures of each train operating company. Central London houses significant attractions, resulting in high living costs. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, so we opted to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating interactions with students from different backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more difficult to find in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Some popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time during errands, particularly in exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in proves to be a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. A majority of international students in London search for the comfort of their home country within the city. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Situated in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the city’s accommodation options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.