Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Though not a long duration, I’ve gained some understanding. London is a bustling metropolis, notable for its varied housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in browsing potential housing options online, detailing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, lively areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s robust transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between these zones. For my part, I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering rent. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students of different backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting a colorful array of diverse areas. Many international students seek a connection to their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These exemplify just a few of the community rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, navigate cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.