Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this period may seem brief, I have gained some insights. London is an energetic city, characterized not just by its varied housing options but also by its vibrant communities. Students have an array of choices available at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings present features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, review amenities, and find transport links.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a remarkable transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 each day. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect regions beyond the Underground, expanding into zones beyond the central area. Fares for travel between zones on these services vary depending on distance and individual train company fare structures. Central London features major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly decreased our rent. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and a similar age group, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, resulting in a tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, boasts a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing possibilities, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.