Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. While this might not seem extensive, I have gained a few observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, noted not only for its various housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future accommodations online, view amenities, and evaluate distances to public transportation.
In my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside the city’s core. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The cost of living in central London’s prime locations is notably high. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, drastically cutting down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private accommodations.
It was important for me to be close to grocery stores. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies reduces the time spent on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing the right neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining places, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of the housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.