Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, notable not just for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have abundant choices readily available. Both student housing and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private 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 potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and identify nearby public transit options.
In my quest for a place to stay, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London boasts a superb transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted for walking shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train company. Central London presents significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which considerably reduced our rental costs. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Living near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London greatly depend on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.