Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of my residency in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have acquired valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a wide range of housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students enjoy numerous options, from student residences to private housing, which includes ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared versus private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring prospective housing online, verifying amenities, and evaluating accessibility to public transport.
During my accommodation search, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables smooth travel between different zones. To cut back on commuting expenses, as travel between zones can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transportation. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. Fare pricing for inter-zone travel varies by distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major tourist spots in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, going to university together with a friend allowed us to share accommodations, dramatically lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been difficult in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common grocery chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op abound, along with more budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential businesses such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on daily tasks, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The various ethnic communities in London are a critical part of its cultural mosaic, showcasing a multitude of neighborhoods. Numerous international students desire a sense of connection to their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively musical atmosphere. Chinatown in London’s West End boasts an abundance of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The finest areas to inhabit in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a fresh home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.