Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this period may seem short, I’ve acquired a considerable amount of knowledge. London boasts a vibrant atmosphere, reflected not only in its variety of housing but also in its communities. Students have a plethora of options to choose from. Both student residences and private rentals feature choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, highlighting amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate easy navigation across the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I preferred to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching into zones beyond central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train provider. Central London has significant attractions, resulting in higher living expenses. Thankfully, I had a friend from university with whom I decided to share a room, resulting in considerable rent savings. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant mix of unique neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, has a large South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, 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 area filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples highlight just a few of the community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London are contingent upon your personal interests and requirements. While hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this remarkable city offers.