Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I’ve gathered some insights during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students are presented with a wide array of options. Both student housing and private rentals provide various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future residences online, showcasing amenities and their closeness to public transport.
In my pursuit of a place to stay, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travels across zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal commuting could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas further than central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare structure of each train operator. Central London houses numerous attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended the university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly reducing our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery shops include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies can save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural diversity, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a touch of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian demographic with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are only a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London are shaped by your preferences and necessities. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.