Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve acquired substantial knowledge. London is a vibrant city, offering not only a variety of housing options but also a rich community life. Students find numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both university accommodations and private rentals come with options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, highlighting amenities and distances to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel between different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have lowered university travel costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, which contributes to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery shops was significant for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. The ethnic communities in London play an essential role in its cultural landscape, creating diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek aspects of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, serves as a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary depending on individual preferences and needs. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.