Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I commemorated nine months residing in London. While it may not seem like a significant duration, I’ve gained some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have a plethora of choices available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodation and private rentals present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, showcasing amenities and distances to public transport.
During my hunt for a place, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transit system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can lead to costs up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced university travel expenses. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train provider. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I began attending university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, substantially cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with individuals from varied backgrounds and of the same age group, a blend that is not as readily available in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, which is especially useful during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural identity, creating diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the core of London’s West End, presents numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and necessities. When embarking on a search for a new dwelling in London, delve into the diversity and abundance of accommodation options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.