Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem short, I have gained several insights. London is a dynamic city, renowned for its varied housing options and lively communities. Students have a wealth of choices available, including student residences and private accommodations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my search for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s exceptional public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I preferred to walk short distances to cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes may cost up to £5.25 daily. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside central London, with fare variations depending on distance and the fare structures of train companies. Central London’s prominent attractions lead to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I shared a room with a friend from university, which substantially lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is less common in private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was essential 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 daily tasks, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite challenging. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity in their new environment reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. 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 examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are influenced by personal preferences and requirements. When searching for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.