Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might appear brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering not only a wide selection of housing options but also a plethora of communities. Students can find ample choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private accommodations feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in browsing their future residences online, reviewing amenities, and locating nearby public transport links.
In my quest for a place to live, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel across and between zones. I sought to minimize transportation costs, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend coverage beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train service. Central London houses major attractions, which drives living expenses up. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to cohabit a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London search for a connection to their home country. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, presents numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These reflect just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London depend on individual interests and requirements. While seeking a new residence in London, take in the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.