Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe isn’t extensive, I’ve gained various insights throughout my stay. London is a bustling metropolis, providing an array of housing options and dynamic communities. There are plenty of choices available for students, such as student accommodations and private housing, including options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can leverage platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential dwellings online, evaluate available amenities, and gauge the distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London’s remarkable public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, supports easy navigation and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can amount to as much as £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have greatly lowered commuting costs for university travel. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London play a role in the elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a space, significantly easing our rent burden. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing an area to live is a complex task. The ethnic communities in London are a vital aspect of its cultural landscape, creating a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. A considerable number of international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples showcasing community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this exceptional city has to offer.