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 duration, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is lively, not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private accommodations present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring prospective accommodations online, highlighting amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting expenses for students. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend less commonly found in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students hunt for connections to their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area boasting Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These serve as illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on your preferences and needs. When searching for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and abundance of its accommodation selections, dive into cultural pockets, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this amazing city.