Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may appear brief, I’ve acquired some perspectives during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, featuring a myriad of housing selections and varied communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals include facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house share opportunities. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, examine amenities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
In my quest for a living arrangement, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these options fluctuate based on distance and the fare rules of each train operator. The central area’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been challenging in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a daunting task. London’s cultural communities are fundamental to its social fabric, providing diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, presents a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. In the process of seeking a new home in London, embrace its diversity and richness in accommodation choices, explore cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.