Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residence in London. Though this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve gleaned several observations throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an extensive array of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them, encompassing student residences and private accommodations, with features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible accommodations online, alongside their amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, vibrant social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London offers an excellent public transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for simple navigation and travel between zones. To reduce travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal travel, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London, with fares differing according to distance and the fare structures of train companies. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, leading to a significant decrease in rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics, a blend that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, accompanied by more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural mosaic, offering a diverse assortment of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for touches of home in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, features a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate just a handful of neighbourhood communities.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.