Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge during this period. London is a dynamic city, not just in regard to its varied housing choices but also its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing present different alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their prospective lodgings online, showcasing the amenities available and proximity to public transit.
While looking for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London hosts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London crave the comfort of their native culture. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. In your quest for a new abode in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.