Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration might appear brief, I’ve gathered a few observations throughout this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not just regarding its various housing choices but also for its rich array of communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations virtually, along with the amenities provided and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which ease movement and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train company. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is often more difficult to find in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter with a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. In your search for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this magnificent city.