Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it isn’t a lengthy period, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant city, acclaimed not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have numerous alternatives at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future residences online, check amenities, and access public transport links.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each rail company. Central London hosts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which helped us save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is tougher to find in private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand runs, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s diverse ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, presenting varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country’s culture in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. To find your next home in London, embrace the diversity and rich array of housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.