Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residence in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, celebrated for its variety of housing choices and its diverse communities. Students enjoy numerous options right at their doorstep. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom facilitate international students in previewing potential housing online, reviewing amenities, and accessing public transport information.
During my search for housing, I aimed for a room rental in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, considering that inter-zone journeys can reach up to £5.25 each day. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. However, the oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structures of each train operator. The living costs near major attractions in Central London can be quite elevated. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting an area to live in can be difficult. The diverse ethnic communities of London play a key role in its cultural landscape, presenting a range of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity from their homeland within London. Southall in West London boasts a robust South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End showcases a multitude of Chinese restaurants, retail shops, and cultural celebrations. These serve as mere illustrations of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.