Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I have gathered some insights. London is a bustling metropolis, providing an extensive range of living options and dynamic communities. Students are presented with plenty of alternatives, such as student residences and private lodgings, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students already living locally can easily schedule apartment viewings, while those from overseas can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and access public transport links.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and pricing structures of individual train companies. The presence of major attractions in Central London results in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural identity, offering a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown nestled in the heart of London’s West End features a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of accommodation types, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.