Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve acquired a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, showcasing a variety of housing options and lively communities. Students have an abundance of selections, ranging from student residences to private rentals, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can visit websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s exceptional transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and commuting between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 per day, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Oyster card options have reduced the cost of commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London, with fares differing based on distance and train company pricing structures. The steep living expenses in Central London can be alleviated by sharing a room with a friend, significantly lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops, like supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic enclaves are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity in London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End boasts an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the neighborhood communities.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on the hunt for a new dwelling in London, welcome the city’s varied accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.