Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it might appear brief, I’ve gained considerable experience during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a multitude of housing choices and varied communities. Students enjoy a wealth of options, from student residences to private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and find local transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two considered the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can be as much as £5.25 per day, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Oyster card options have helped lower university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, with fares varying according to distance and the pricing structures of individual train companies. The cost of living in Central London’s attractions is high, but sharing a room with a friend allowed us to save considerably on rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, which is often 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, along with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London has a vibrant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and musical heritage. Chinatown in the West End is a dynamic locale filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and necessities. When on the hunt for a new place to live, welcome the diversity and richness of London’s accommodation landscape, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.