Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residence in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is a dynamic city, characterized by its varied housing options and thriving communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective lodgings online, complete with details on amenities and transport links.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel among zones. I aimed to cut down on travel costs as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances instead of using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made traveling to the university less expensive. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services depend on distance and the fare structures set by individual train companies. Central London features major attractions, making living expenses quite high. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from different backgrounds and similar age groups, a diversity that is often harder to find in private housing.
It was vital for me to live near grocery shops. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural landscape, offering a variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students in London seek to find comfort similar to their home country. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with an abundance of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend heavily on personal interests and needs. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.