Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve gained extensive knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, known not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have numerous alternatives right at their fingertips. Both university accommodation and privately rented spaces provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and communal living arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment tours, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, detailing amenities and access to public transport.
During my apartment hunt, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize transportation expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I preferred to walk shorter distances rather than opt for a bus or tube ride. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made commuting to university less expensive. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground’s reach, covering zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of individual train companies. Central London hosts numerous major attractions, contributing to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a mix less common in private rentals.
Living close to grocery shops was vital for me. Common supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, creating diverse localities. Many international students look for a sense of home in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a vibrant area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, explore cultural hubs, and savor the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.