Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem like an extended period, I’ve acquired some insights. London is an energetic city, not only due to its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange for apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, complete with amenities and location relative to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenditures since inter-zonal commutes can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The costs of living in central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, significantly decreasing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a key part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home country within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End serves as a lively enclave filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify only a few community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for residence in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for new accommodations in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.