Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London boasts a dynamic atmosphere, fueled not only by its varied housing alternatives but also its energetic communities. Students have an array of options readily available. Both student accommodations and private rentals present various choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings, while international students can access platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, inspect amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, keeping me close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement around the city and between zones. I aimed to limit travel expenses, as crossing zones can incur costs up to £5.25 each day. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. Travel fares between zones on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we shared a room, greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private housing arrangements.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of their home country’s familiarity within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.