Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I have gained extensive insights during this period. London is a bustling city, not only due to its varied housing choices but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings provide an array of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, evaluate amenities, and consider closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to reduce travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the options offered by oyster cards have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas on the outskirts of central London. Prices for inter-zone journeys on these services differ depending on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The principal attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I entered university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a tough choice. The ethnic communities in London are key to its cultural essence, providing a beautiful patchwork of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a taste of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Chinatown, found in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with myriad Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.