Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have acquired several insights. London is lively, not only because of its varied housing choices but also due to its communities. Students have an array of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house share arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.
While I was looking for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key sites, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies getting around the city and traveling between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can incur charges of up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to zones outside the city center. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare scheme. Central London boasts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with a diverse group of peers around the same age, something that is often challenging to find with private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural identity, creating varied neighborhoods. Most international students look for familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic hub featuring Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To find your new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing solutions, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.