Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, my experiences have been invaluable. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned for its varied housing possibilities and its communities. Students have a multitude of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals present a range of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, examine amenities, and locate nearby public transport routes.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between these zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal commutes can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of using a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. However, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high costs of living near Central London’s main attractions can be daunting. Fortunately, living with a friend at university allowed us to split rent significantly. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and of similar age, something that is often not found in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London are contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.