Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period may not seem extensive, I have gained significant insights. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students find themselves surrounded by numerous choices. Both student accommodations and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, inspect amenities, and assess distance to public transport.
In my search for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near prime attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, encompassing zones beyond Central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail operator. Due to the high living costs in Central London, which houses major attractions, I was fortunate to attend university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, allowing us to save significantly on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential to me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Residing close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies economizes time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London crave a taste of familiarity from their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, provides a plethora of Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These examples reflect just a few vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and necessities. When on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.