Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated the nine-month mark of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I have gained some valuable experiences. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its various accommodation choices but also by its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both university housing and private rentals present a range of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, alongside details about amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an exceptional public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to limit transportation expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones that lie outside central London. Fare prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Luckily, I entered university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating meeting peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies alleviates the hassle of errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for the familiarity of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, retail shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.