Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this span isn’t extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its diverse housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both accommodation for students and private rentals present options such as 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 permit international students to explore prospective lodgings online, evaluate available amenities, and consider proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation across the city and movement between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as travel between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of relying on buses or the tube for short distances, I chose to walk. However, various oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground to outer zones. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London drive up living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, which resulted in a significant reduction in rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to necessary shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a taste of home in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.