Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked the milestone of nine months living in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have acquired a significant amount of knowledge. London stands out as a vibrant city, not only for its varied housing solutions but also for its diverse communities. Students find themselves with an abundance of options. Both student residences and private lodgings provide alternatives including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover the nearest public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk short distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university considerably more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London is home to major landmarks, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Having grocery stores nearby was of utmost importance to me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London form a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing neighborhoods rich in diversity. Many international students look for familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a selection of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. While on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.