Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this length of time may seem brief, I’ve gathered some valuable observations throughout my stay. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not only for its varied accommodation choices but also for its engaging communities. Students have a wide array of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide multiple choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible housing online, including details on amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal transit can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economically feasible. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines tasks, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, resulting in an array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with a variety of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to live in London vary according to your personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and allure of this exceptional city.