Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis that presents a wide array of housing selections and dynamic communities. Students have numerous options readily available, from student accommodations to private lodgings, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house sharing arrangements. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, assess amenities, and identify local public transport connections.
During my search for a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can climb to £5.25 per day, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground coverage, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to heightened living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly lowering our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural identity, weaving a rich tapestry of various neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home nation within London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and abundance of housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and enjoy the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.