Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gathered some valuable observations throughout this time. London is an energetic city, not solely for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options available right at their fingertips. Both accommodations for students and private rentals present a range of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future residences online, assess the amenities, and locate the nearest public transport links.
During my quest for suitable accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spaces, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to travel and navigate between zones. I wanted to minimize my commuting expenses as inter-zonal travel can be as high as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Luckily, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central areas. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on the distance traveled and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London houses significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London yearn for the comfort of their homeland. Southall in West London has a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The most desirable places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.