Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t particularly lengthy, I’ve gained a significant amount of insight. London is a bustling metropolis, not merely for its various housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students can easily find numerous options right at hand. Both student accommodations and private rentals present choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can quickly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential housing online, including amenities and distance to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my preference was for a room in Central London to maintain proximity to major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and traveling between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and fare structure from each train operator. Living in Central London comes with significant living expenses due to its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and substantially reduce our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students desire similarities to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London accommodates a sizable South Asian population with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional garment boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.