Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this period may seem brief, I’ve acquired a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not just by its diverse living arrangements but also by its multifaceted communities. Students have a wide array of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer options such as 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 browse potential rentals online, evaluate amenities, and determine proximity to public transport.
During my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to notable landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 each day, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to reach areas outside of central London. The costs for inter-zone travels on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare structure set by each train company. The high living expenses near Central London’s major attractions are a significant factor. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is often more difficult to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland available. Having essential retailers, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, stands as a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on the search for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation alternatives, discover cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.