Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though this duration is relatively short, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its wide range of living arrangements but also for its rich mix of communities. Students have a plethora of options to consider. Both university accommodation and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including amenities and proximity to public transport.
During my housing search, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes travel and navigation between zones straightforward. To minimize travel expenses, since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transit. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Pricing for these services varies according to distance and the fare models of individual train operators. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to share accommodation, significantly lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from different backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is trickier to find in privately rented properties.
Living close to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies cuts down on time spent running errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The diverse ethnic communities are an integral aspect of its cultural makeup, providing a rich array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their native culture in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples highlight just a few of the community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The best areas to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.