Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its variety of living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students are presented with numerous options in the vicinity. Both student housing and private rentals provide a range of alternatives including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, including facilities and access to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s exceptional transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies the navigation and commuting between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I opted for walking shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, which contributes to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s multicultural communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall, located in West London, is known for its substantial South Asian population, presenting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of London’s housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.