Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my stay in London. While this may not seem like a significant duration, I have gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its rich variety of communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals include choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across and between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, thus I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. That said, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London’s Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for these services differ based on the distance traveled and the fare structure of each train operator. The elevated living expenses in Central London are countered by sharing a room with a friend while attending university, which helps reduce rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations as they allow me to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which can be more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby significantly saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is no easy task. The city’s multicultural communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End boasts numerous Chinese eateries, retail outlets, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodations in London, embrace the vast ranges of housing options, investigate cultural localities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.