Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy duration, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, offering not only a variety of housing options but also a rich mix of communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer different configurations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently organize viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, including the available amenities and how close they are to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a robust public transport system, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for seamless navigation and travel across zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can accumulate to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, connecting to areas outside the central zones. Fares for traveling across zones on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train service. The high living expenses in Central London are driven by its major attractions. Fortunately, I paired up with a friend from university, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to meet individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics, a combination that is more challenging to find in privately rented spaces.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Main supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, has a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When evaluating housing options in London, celebrate the diversity and wealth of available accommodations, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the conveniences and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.