Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem lengthy, I’ve gained a wealth of experience during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students enjoy a multitude of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and flat shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their potential homes online, review the available amenities, and assess their proximity to public transport.
In my search for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my transportation expenses, as travel between zones can reach £5.25 each day. I preferred to walk shorter distances as opposed to using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, accessing zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, contributing to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s often difficult to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comforts of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, immerse yourself in the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.