Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I’ve accumulated some perspectives throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its array of housing choices but also because of its varied communities. Students have a multitude of options to consider. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview potential accommodations online, including the available amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a place to live, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses as moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of utilizing a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Thankfully, oyster card options have made commutes for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a companion, and we chose to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is less commonly found in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence is no easy feat. The ethnic communities within London are integral to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London often seek a sense of familiarity with their homelands. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London will vary based on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.