Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired considerable knowledge. London is an energetic city, enriched not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its lively communities. Students are presented with an abundance of options. Both university accommodation and private housing offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, rooms for sharing or private use, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to evaluate potential accommodations online, check available amenities, and determine proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the pricing structure of the respective train companies. Central London has numerous attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents challenges. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural landscape, offering a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for connections to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These exemplify just a few of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.