Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this time frame may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered a wealth of knowledge. London stands as a vibrant metropolis, recognized not just for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with a myriad of alternatives. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide an array of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential lodgings online, assess available amenities, and identify nearby public transit options.
During my quest for a living space, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, providing ease of navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize commuting expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure set by each train operating company. The high cost of living in Central London’s main attractions is notable. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a semblance of their native countries in London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community, boasting Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling locale with a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.