Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though nine months may not seem extensive, I have acquired several insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its thriving communities. Students have a multitude of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of selections, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their future living spaces online, checking amenities, and locating the closest public transport networks.
In my quest for accommodations, I sought to find a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and travel among the zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 a day. I opted to walk short distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have considerably lowered commuting costs for university. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to outer zones. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London boasts major attractions, resulting in high living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, so we decided to share a room, which significantly cut our rent expenses. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar age, which is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Personally, proximity to supermarkets was essential. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London often seek a slice of their home nation within this vast city. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. To discover your next home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.