Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of living in London. While this may seem brief, I have gathered some valuable experiences. London is a dynamic metropolis, teeming with varied housing options and vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private accommodations offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, examine facilities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
As I looked for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for easy access to major attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured around six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and move between zones. I aimed to keep my travel costs low, as inter-zonal travel can be as high as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend further than the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train service. Major attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent expenses. I selected intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Prominent supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home country. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.