Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing an extensive range of housing types and varied communities. Students find numerous options at their convenience, with both student accommodations and private rentals offering choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students might utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, comprising underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs around Central London’s main attractions are notable. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a blend harder to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students find comfort in communities reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.