Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though this period may not seem extensive, I have gathered some valuable observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its variety of housing options but also by its thriving communities. Students can find an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private residences present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and discover accessible public transport connections.
In my endeavor to secure a place to live, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, vibrant social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transport infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel among zones. To minimize travel expenses, considering inter-zonal transit can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, various oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university trips. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground coverage, reaching zones outside the city center. Fare structures for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the specific pricing model of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are largely attributed to its major attractions. Thankfully, I was able to attend university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers of diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more difficult to encounter in private rental properties.
Being close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite challenging. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London gravitate towards areas that remind them of their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples represent just a fraction of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for accommodation in London greatly depend on individual interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s rich diversity and multifaceted accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.