Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained several insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students have numerous choices available right where they live. Both university residences and private rentals include amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential living spaces online, examining facilities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the innermost zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since crossing zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted for walking shorter distances over taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts numerous attractions, which elevates living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodation, substantially reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which might have been more challenging in private accommodations.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing diverse localities. Many international students look for a sense of home in the city. Southall, located in West London, features a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional textile stores. Brixton, in South London, is recognized 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 festivities. These represent just a handful of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London rely on your personal preferences and requirements. As you search for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of housing choices, delve into cultural communities, and relish the ease and excitement this extraordinary city offers.