Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago marked my nine months of residence in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained several insights in this time. London is a lively city, known not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide a wide array of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their future living spaces online, assess available amenities, and locate the nearest public transport options.
During my quest for housing, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to move around and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card schemes have significantly reduced costs for university commuting. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside the core of London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance and the fare policies of each train operating company. Central London boasts significant attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds within the same age group, a mix harder to find through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was a priority for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is time-efficient when managing errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse communities. Most international students in London seek the familiarity of their home country within the city. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community, replete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the central West End of London, is a vibrant area featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight just a few of the community-rich neighbourhoods.
The best locations to stay in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore the cultural enclaves, and indulge in the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.