Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have garnered several insights along the way. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an array of housing choices and lively communities. Students find themselves with a wealth of options. Both university accommodations and private housing feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective residences online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
In my pursuit of housing, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, permitting seamless navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. To offset this, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commutes to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend their reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing areas located outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us significantly lower rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to fundamental establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies reduces the time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. The ethnic communities in London play a pivotal role in shaping its cultural identity, providing a range of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their native countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, discover cultural enclaves, and indulge in the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.