Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered various insights. London is an energetic city, offering not just a range of housing choices but also a melting pot of communities. Students have numerous options available. Both student housing and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently book apartment viewings, whilst platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, complete with details about amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel across zones. I sought to keep travel expenses minimal, since inter-zone journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to commute on foot for shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have enhanced the affordability of university travel. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses near Central London’s key attractions are notable. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which notably decreased our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities form a significant part of its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, showcases a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, groceries, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary depending on individual preferences and requirements. When searching for new accommodations in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the variety of living options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this exceptional city has to offer.