Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it might not seem extended, I’ve accrued insights throughout this duration. London is a dynamic city, presenting a range of living arrangements and lively neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly book apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective homes online, assess available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to notable sites, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make navigation and travel between zones straightforward. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zone journeys can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London’s key attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was important for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for running errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s multicultural communities are pivotal to its cultural richness, providing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a taste of their native cultures within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, boasting Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.