Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a long duration, I have gathered some observations. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, evaluate amenities, and consider the distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail routes extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The popularity of Central London’s main attractions leads to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodations, considerably lowering rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s multicultural districts are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When scouting for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.