Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like an extended period, I have gleaned several insights. London is a bustling city, recognized for its varied housing options and dynamic communities. Students have numerous alternatives available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide various choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal travel could accumulate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, going into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London add to high living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which notably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a mix that is harder to find in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets 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 saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for the familiarity of their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a vibrant area with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to inhabit in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the eclectic nature and wealth of its accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.