Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this is a brief period, I have gained some insights. London is an energetic city, rich not only in its wide range of housing options but also in its various communities. Students have numerous choices available right at their fingertips. Both shared accommodations and private rentals provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students find it easy to book viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to lease 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 two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing between zones can reach £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for the bus or tube, I decided to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services link areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to prominent attractions, which contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I shared a room at university with a friend, significantly cutting down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies aids in managing errands more effectively, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural diversity, giving rise to varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students pursue familiarity with their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, ranks as a lively area with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and abundance of available housing, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.