Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have a wealth of nearby choices. Both university residences and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future housing options online, examine facilities, and find connections to public transport.
While looking for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground, covering zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate depending on distance and individual train company fare structures. Central London features prominent attractions, contributing to high living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly cutting our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential locations such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a range of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries here. Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian demographic featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural gatherings. These exemplify community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.