Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not sound lengthy, I’ve gathered several insights throughout this period. London is a vibrant city, not solely for its range of housing choices but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student housing and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to assess potential accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low as inter-zonal transit can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for these modes differ according to distance and the fare systems of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly reducing our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a demographic mix tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, complemented by more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves substantial time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural framework, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London long for a taste of familiarity from their homeland. Southall in West London has a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown located in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its accommodation selections, explore cultural zones, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.