Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it might appear brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its variety of housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residences and private housing provide numerous alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport routes.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prime 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 throughout the city and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of opting for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student residences to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age range, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite daunting. The ethnic communities of London are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting a vivid array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London search for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a myriad of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a handful of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. While on the lookout for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.