Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this might not appear extensive, I’ve gleaned some perspectives in this period. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an array of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living arrangements online, verify available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making traversing and moving across zones straightforward. I sought to lower travel costs, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each railway operator. The significant tourist attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to cohabit a room, substantially decreasing our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a critical role in its cultural tapestry, showcasing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home nations within London. Southall in West London has a predominant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural events. These are only a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new abode in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.