Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered some observations. London is a vibrant city, providing a broad range of housing options and varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices at their fingertips, including student accommodations and private rentals with variations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, evaluate amenities, and determine proximity to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement across zones. Personally, I sought to reduce travel expenses, as traveling between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made getting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The high living costs near Central London’s key attractions are notable. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op were available, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is quite a task. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for a touch of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, features a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.