Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is an energetic city, not only due to its variety of living arrangements but also its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips. Both student housing and private accommodations provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, including facilities and closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I was keen on renting a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these alternatives fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare system. Central London is home to prominent attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I preferred university accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and of a similar age, a diversity that’s harder to encounter in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Most international students in London look for the comfort of their home country. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the search for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.