Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe may seem brief, I’ve acquired several revelations throughout this period. London pulsates with energy, not just due to its extensive selection of housing types but also because of its rich mix of communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Student accommodation as well as private rentals offer various setups, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, showcasing the amenities available and their closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on finding a room in Central London to stay close to key sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transport can reach up to £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these routes differ depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London, being home to many attractions, results in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly lowering our rental expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been tougher with private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be quite challenging. The ethnic communities in London are an integral aspect of its cultural mosaic, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of connection with their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The optimal locations for living in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and depth of its accommodations, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.