Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve absorbed a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not merely due to its plethora of housing options but also because of its rich tapestry of communities. Students have an array of choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, evaluate available amenities, and gauge the closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and inter-zone travel. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can climb as high as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of individual train companies. The proximity to Central London’s main attractions drives up living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while in university significantly cut our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varying backgrounds and ages, a blend harder to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was a priority for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during the exam period.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural landscape, resulting in varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for a slice of familiarity from their home nations in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community complete with Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the city’s varied accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.