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’ve gained various insights. London thrives with energy, not only from its varied housing choices but also from its vibrant communities. Students have a multitude of options available. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to peruse potential accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and discover links to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day, leading me to opt for walking shorter distances rather than utilizing bus or tube services. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university travel. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, covering areas outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, which escalates living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and a similar age group, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was paramount for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies reduces time spent on chores, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity reflective of their home country while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, showcases countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few highlights of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for staying in London vary according to personal interests and preferences. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of accommodation alternatives, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.