Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student accommodations and private residences provide facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible lodgings online, showcasing amenities and their closeness to public transit.
During my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Hence, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London boasts significant attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we made the choice to share a room, which greatly cut down on rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds within the same age range, a mix that’s tougher to come by in private rentals.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic populations are vital to its cultural tapestry, offering a variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian population, replete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples represent just a few of the community-centric neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge upon your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.