Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, it has provided me with valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Student accommodations and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, including the amenities available and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to minimize my travel expenses since moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 per day. Instead of using a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the individual fare regulations of each operating train company. Central London is home to major attractions which results in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to cohabit, resulting in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds of a similar age, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home nations while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on one’s interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.