Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have gained substantial experience. London is an energetic city, presenting a plethora of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have various options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities like en-suite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future housing online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transit connections.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Rates for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare system. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which helped us save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a sizeable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale featuring a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.