Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a significant amount of experience. London is a dynamic city, celebrated for its variety of housing options and lively communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals include choices like ensuite or suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while those from overseas can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to access potential housing options online, review amenities, and discover nearby public transport connections.
During my search for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and commuting between zones. I aimed to lessen travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare system. The high living costs in Central London correspond with its major attractions. Thankfully, I was attending university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which helped us save significantly on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and the same age range, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood proves to be a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. A great many international students search for a sense of familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a sizeable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown, placed at the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, embrace the rich diversity of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the ease and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.