Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have accumulated a wealth of experiences during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by the multitude of housing options available but also by its rich tapestry of communities. Students find themselves with a myriad of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom offer international students the chance to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate their proximity to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones seamless. I was keen to minimize transportation expenses as traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 each day. Consequently, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas extending beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to numerous attractions, which contributes to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I studied at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from varying backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more challenging to find in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was crucial for me. Frequent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite a task. London’s multicultural communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for elements familiar to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London ultimately depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.