Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve accumulated some perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its array of housing options but also for its rich mix of communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student accommodations and independent rentals offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can arrange apartment tours with ease, whereas international students find platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom useful for exploring potential residences online, alongside checking amenities and local transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones seamless. I intended to keep travel expenses low since moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 per day. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the city center. Ticket prices for inter-zone journeys on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London result in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly lower rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from different backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the sense of their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, is known for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These examples merely scratch the surface of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.