Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t a lengthy period, I have acquired significant knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transportation routes.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social gathering points, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates commuting within the city and traveling between zones without difficulty. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high cost of living in Central London is driven by its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, something that would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Nestled in London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.