Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its communities. Students have an abundance of choices readily available. Both student accommodations and private housing present a variety of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, assess the facilities, and locate the closest public transport connections.
In my search for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which consists of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone journeys on these services depend on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The expenses associated with living in Central London’s prime attractions can be quite steep. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to a considerable reduction in our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds within the same age range, a mix that is typically harder to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are an essential part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity akin to their home country within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, boasts many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.