Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem lengthy, I have gained substantial insights. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student residences and private accommodations provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my search for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on the distance and the fare structures of the respective train companies. The costs of living in Central London’s prominent attractions are elevated. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery outlets was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich collection of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students seek to find a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighbourhoods.
The best areas to reside in London depend on your interests and needs. When searching for a new residence, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s accommodation alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.