Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While it might appear brief, I have gained a considerable amount of insight during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, individual and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, showcasing amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six concentric zones, with the first two being the core. London boasts a stellar public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. My goal was to minimize traveling expenses since crossing zones can incur charges of up to £5.25 daily. I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London’s renowned attractions contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a multitude of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland within London. Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, offers a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. In your pursuit of a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.