Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained some insights. London is a dynamic city, presenting a wide range of housing options and communities. Students enjoy various choices, including student residences and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate public transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, considering that inter-zonal travel could reach £5.25 daily, thus I opted to walk short distances. Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living costs in Central London’s prime attractions are elevated. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and reduce our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and age brackets, which is more challenging with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, offering varied neighbourhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End showcases Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, take advantage of its diverse accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.