Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives during this period. London is a dynamic city, presenting a plethora of accommodation alternatives and lively communities. Students have a multitude of options available, as both student housing and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, including details on available amenities and their distance from public transport.
In my quest for a living arrangement, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones simple. Personally, I aimed to keep travel expenses low as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services vary based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly cutting rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from different backgrounds and similar age groups, which is less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time for errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a difficult choice. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, providing a rich blend of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a large South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music scene. Nestled in the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are mere examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation selections, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the comfort and thrill of this extraordinary city.