Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might not be an extensive period, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, not solely for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous selections available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations provide an array of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view potential accommodations online, assess the amenities, and understand their closeness to public transportation.
During my hunt for a living space, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower my travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced university commute costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each rail company. Central London features major attractions, which leads to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was attending university alongside a friend, so we decided to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with students from various backgrounds and of similar age, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was a priority for me. Popular supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a significant choice. London’s ethnic communities are an essential aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a rich blend of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native country. Southall, in West London, boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These exemplify some of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and vibrancy of the city’s accommodation choices, explore the cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.