Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like an extensive period, I’ve acquired several perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not just by its varied housing types but also by its vibrant communities. Students are presented with a wealth of options. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewing appointments for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, evaluate amenities, and check the distance to public transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising buses, trains, and the underground (tube), provides an efficient means of navigating between zones. I aimed to limit travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare policies. The cost of living in central London is elevated due to its prominent attractions. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, allowing us to save significantly on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less prevalent in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable chains like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness of vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough task. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a touch of familiarity from their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to live in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to stay, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing opportunities, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.