Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve acquired some valuable observations. London is a vibrant city, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students have a multitude of options available. Both student accommodations and private residences offer an array of choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore future homes online, featuring the available amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my pursuit of a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies the process of moving around and traveling between zones. I aimed to decrease travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I selected to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each rail operator. The high living costs in Central London are due to its main attractions. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is intricate. London’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural essence, presenting a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country within London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.