Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though this may not seem like a long period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an array of possibilities right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private housing present a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, including amenities and their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across different zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted for walking short distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London’s major attractions contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to mingle with students from varied backgrounds and of similar age, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek to find a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London has a prominent South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area with countless Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.