Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I have gathered some reflections. London is an energetic city, notable for its range of housing options and its rich mix of communities. Students are presented with myriad alternatives. Both student residences and private rentals include choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to peruse possible accommodations online, featuring amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than opting for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made daily university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ according to distance and the fare format of each rail company. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, greatly decreasing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a demographic mix that is tougher to find in private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery stores was vital. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially in exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural essence, creating a vibrant mosaic of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, found in the bustling West End of London, is a dynamic hub filled with various Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation selections, explore cultural neighborhoods, and take pleasure in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.