Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered several insights. London stands out as a lively metropolis, not just for its eclectic housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students view their prospective homes online, inspect amenities, and gauge their distance from public transportation.
While I was on the hunt for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London, allowing me to be close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. I aspired to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to stroll short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced the costs of commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare schedule of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem from its numerous major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly lowered our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to mingle with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a core part of its cultural identity, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a large South Asian population with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, showcases many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely some illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for new accommodations in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.