Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, showcasing available amenities and proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I preferred a room in Central London to remain close to major sites, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a commendable transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to minimize commuting expenses as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of using the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have indeed lowered university commute expenses. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its numerous major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds within the same age range, a feat more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errand-running, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The ethnic diversity in London plays a crucial role in its cultural landscape, with varied neighborhoods to explore. Many international students look for familiar surroundings reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, showcases an abundance of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community hubs.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. In your search for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.