Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodation and private residences provide options such as ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective lodgings online, assess amenities, and locate the nearest public transport links.
During my search for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel may cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London boasts numerous major attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and greatly reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is a combination less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is teeming with Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of neighborhood communities.
The optimal living areas in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace its diverse accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.