Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While the duration is relatively short, I have acquired some perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its multitude of housing choices but also because of its varied communities. Students have numerous opportunities right at their doors. Both student accommodations and private rentals present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine prospective accommodations online, including amenities and access to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize transportation expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. Consequently, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Remaining close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural environment, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home country. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned within London’s West End, is a bustling quarter with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its accommodation options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.