Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this might not seem extensive, I’ve gained a significant amount of insight. London is an energetic city, appreciated not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its rich variety of communities. Students have an array of selections available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, including amenities and access to public transport.
As I searched for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can accumulate costs of up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each rail operator. The high cost of living near central London’s prominent attractions is noteworthy. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from different cultures and similar age groups, a blend more difficult to find in private properties.
Living in proximity to grocery shops was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, especially during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity akin to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, found in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. While on the quest for new accommodations 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.