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, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its lively communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Both student residences and private rentals offer a multitude of alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, showcasing amenities and proximity to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has a superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies the process of moving and traveling between zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenses since crossing between zones could cost up to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have facilitated more economical university travels. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each railway company. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a companion, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities significantly enrich its cultural scenery, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London pursue the comfort of their home culture. Southall in West London is known for its sizable South Asian community, offering Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on your interests and necessities. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and vibrancy of its accommodation options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.