Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a long duration, I’ve gained valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an array of housing types and dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of choices readily available, with student residences and private lodgings offering options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, complete with amenities and transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s remarkable transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates effortless navigation and commute between zones. To curb travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can tally up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground lines, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The higher living costs around Central London’s key attractions are offset by sharing a room with a fellow student, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like grocery outlets and pharmacies close by saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London is not straightforward. The various ethnic communities significantly contribute to the city’s cultural richness, creating a vibrant array of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional garment stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and variety of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.