Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months of residing in London. Though this may not seem like a long duration, I have gathered some valuable experiences. London is a dynamic city, notable not just for its variety of housing options but also for its lively communities. There are numerous choices available for students. Both student housing and private rentals present an array of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students studying locally can easily schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom provide international students the opportunity to browse prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate their accessibility to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be close to major sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since travel between zones can accumulate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more cost-effective. 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 each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts numerous attractions, leading to higher living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a colleague, and we decided to cohabit, allowing us to cut down on rent significantly. I was inclined towards intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and the same age, a combination that is often tougher to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps to save time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities within London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Many international students desire a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vivacious music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, fully appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.