Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained some insights. London is lively, presenting a variety of housing options and communities. Students can choose from different types of accommodations, from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and suite facilities, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective lodgings online, review amenities, and access public transportation links.
In my quest for housing, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have reduced university travel costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London, with fares varying by distance and the pricing structures of different train companies. The high cost of living in central London can be attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly cutting down our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds within the same age group, as this mix is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural diversity, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London are determined by your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, take in the variety and richness of accommodation choices, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.