Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it might not sound like a lengthy period, I’ve gathered considerable knowledge. London thrives as a vibrant city, not only because of its assorted housing offerings but also its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and communal living situations. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible accommodations online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a dwelling, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major sights, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I intended to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost upwards of £5.25 each day. Instead of utilizing a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered the costs of getting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside of the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare schemes of different train companies. The high living costs associated with central London’s prominent attractions are notable. Thankfully, I attended university with a companion, and we decided to co-rent a room, significantly cutting down on rental expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and ages, a mix that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities of London make up a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a colorful array of diverse neighborhoods. A significant number of international students look for the comfort of their native cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community encompassing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, settled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples are just a glimpse into community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London largely depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.