Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe may not seem extensive, I have accumulated some knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a vast selection of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals come with various alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing options online, including details about amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for suitable living arrangements, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling across zones quite straightforward. I attempted to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day. Instead of taking buses or the tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, connecting with zones outside of central London. Prices for these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of individual train companies. The high living costs in central London are largely attributed to its major attractions. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are available, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural essence, offering a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home culture. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples highlight just a few of the neighborhood communities.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.