Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it’s a relatively brief span, I’ve gathered some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private residences provide options such as 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 possible living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between the zones. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares could amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have made daily commutes to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Prominent attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably lowered our rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood in London poses its own challenges. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, creating a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a semblance of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a considerable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely heavily on personal preferences and priorities. When on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing selections, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.