Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residence in London. While it may not appear lengthy, I have gained a wealth of experience during this period. London is a dynamic city, characterized not only by its myriad of housing options but also by its multicultural populations. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer a range of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
In my search for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an excellent transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies transit between zones. I personally focused on minimizing travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fare structures for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing system. The high demand for major attractions in Central London drives up living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination often less accessible in private rentals.
For me, being situated close to grocery stores was vital. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, complemented by budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a wide array of neighborhoods. Many international students find solace in familiar elements from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant locale filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
Determining the best areas to reside in London relies on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on a quest for new housing in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.