Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of living in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained several insights. London is a dynamic city, presenting a plethora of housing choices and lively communities. Students have an abundance of options available, ranging from student housing to private residences, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can investigate potential accommodations online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, assessing amenities and their closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an excellent transit system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to get around and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I decided to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Oyster card alternatives have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, covering zones outside central London, with fare prices depending on distance and the specific train company’s pricing structure. The high living expenses in Central London are offset by sharing a room with a friend, significantly lowering rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, notably during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural diversity, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is known for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, groceries, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music environment. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers many Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are dependent on individual interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, take advantage of the diverse housing alternatives, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.