Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained various insights. London is an energetic city, recognized not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students benefit from numerous alternatives right at their doorstep. Student housing and private rentals feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom support international students in checking out their future lodgings online, exploring amenities, and identifying available public transportation links.
During my hunt for accommodation, my preference was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an efficient transportation system that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 each day. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university trips. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Living costs are elevated near major central attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and a similar age group, a combination that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood is a complex task. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its cultural essence, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of home in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and bustling music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant location filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London ultimately depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home, embrace London’s accommodation diversity and rich cultural segments, while enjoying the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.