Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its broad range of housing options but also for its dynamic communities. There are countless opportunities available for students. Both college-dedicated housing and private rentals offer various options, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, evaluate available amenities, and determine closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London features a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traveling between zones easy and efficient. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can be as high as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card schemes have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, serving areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance traveled and the pricing policies of each train operator. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, particularly during exam time.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of diverse areas. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their homeland within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End offers a vibrant area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, celebrate the variety and depth of its accommodation choices, investigate cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.