Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though this time frame isn’t long, I’ve gained some perspectives. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its vast selection of housing options but also its varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both university housing and private rentals offer different alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, detailing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features a superb public transport system, including the tube, buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and commute across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting could amount to £5.25 daily. I selected to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have made university travels more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly reducing rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is often hard to find in private homes.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse districts. Many international students in London search for the comfort of their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, has a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are dependent on personal preferences and needs. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.