Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t a lengthy period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing choices and varied communities. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings offer various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to important shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing diverse areas. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, contains a significant South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to live in London, appreciate the variety and depth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.