Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices readily available. Both student accommodations and private housing present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house-sharing arrangements. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including facilities and access to public transport.
While on the hunt for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, lively social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most centrally located. London’s transportation system is commendable, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating smooth navigation and inter-zonal travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can incur daily costs of up to £5.25. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have lowered the costs of commuting to university. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses around Central London’s prime attractions are significant. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, allowing us to save notably on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a core part of its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for aspects of their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When embarking on the search for a new home in London, embrace the richness of accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.