Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s not an extended period, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London stands out as a vibrant city, not only for its extensive range of housing choices but also for its eclectic communities. Students have abundant options right at their fingertips. Both university accommodations and private rentals present diverse selections, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly organize apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
In my search for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s exceptional transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I was keen to minimize my travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The cost of living near Central London’s major sites is quite high. Fortunately, I was at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near basic necessities such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging task. London’s diverse ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a wide array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of connection to their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.