Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone residing in London. Although it may appear brief, the insights I’ve gained during this period are substantial. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting an extensive range of housing options and varied communities. Students enjoy a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily organize apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s excellent public transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have notably lessened university commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly alleviating rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, living near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents challenges. The ethnic communities of London are crucial to its cultural identity, providing a rich mixture of distinctive areas. Many international students seek a sense of connection to their home nation within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with various Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural events. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new housing in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.