Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gleaned several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its diverse housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can take advantage of platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, review facilities, and evaluate distance to public transportation.
During my accommodation hunt, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to get around and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize traveling expenses as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, options for oyster cards have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is costly due to its key attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds who are of similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in privately owned properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, creating diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous 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 various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and needs. As you look for a new home in London, take in the diversity and abundance of accommodation options, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement this incredible city has to offer.