Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months is not a lengthy time frame, I’ve gathered some valuable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, known not only for its wide variety of housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students find themselves with a plethora of choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide an array of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and consider their distance from public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. My personal goal was to cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can tally up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of individual train operators. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a companion enabled us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages—a combination that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery outlets 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 near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural landscape, presenting an array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a semblance of familiarity from their home nations within London. Southall, situated in West London, accommodates a large South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is popular for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These represent only a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for a new place in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and experience the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.