Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I have picked up several insights. London is a lively metropolis, not only for its wide-ranging housing options but also for its communities. Students have a multitude of choices in close proximity. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange for apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I targeted renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fare can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for the bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground’s coverage, extending to zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to the high living costs. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us to significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds who are around the same age, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students pursue a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When you are on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.