Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this period may not be extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London pulsates with energy, not only due to its varied housing choices but also because of its vibrant communities. Students find themselves surrounded by abundant options. Both student residences and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transportation links.
Throughout my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features an outstanding public transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across zones. I sought to minimize commuting expenses, as inter-zonal travel could amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high cost of living near Central London’s main attractions is notable. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and the same age bracket, which is more difficult to achieve with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to critical stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural makeup, showcasing diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London often seek a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London is known for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London has a reputation for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End boasts a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new dwelling in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.