Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have gained several insights. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private accommodations feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, assess facilities, and identify nearby public transport connections.
During my search for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a space in Central London to remain close to key 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’s public transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since journeying between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced university commute costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these trains differ according to distance and each train company’s fare regulations. The high costs of living near Central London’s popular sites can be a challenge. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are popular, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are key components of its cultural landscape, creating a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students desire a taste of home within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The top places to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation choices, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.