Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this might not be an extended period, I have acquired some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing alternatives and varied communities. Students have numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals feature choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective homes online, highlighting available amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and commuting between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. However, options for oyster cards have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground, reaching outskirts of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare arrangements of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was enrolled at university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics, which would have been more challenging to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities play an integral role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, centrally located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.