Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gained considerable insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not solely for its wide range of housing alternatives but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a wealth of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room within Central London to remain near key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and travel among zones. I aimed to cut down travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card choices have made getting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to split the cost of a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with students from varied backgrounds within the same age group, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver during busy schedules, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic neighborhoods are integral to its cultural scene, presenting a rich assortment of diverse localities. Numerous international students look for a touch of their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, offers a lively area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight just a few of the community locales.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation available, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the accessibility and thrill offered by this extraordinary city.