Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I have acquired several observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting an abundance of housing choices and lively communities. Students enjoy a range of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse available living arrangements online, including details on amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my pursuit of housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two as the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, supports easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel costs since moving between zones can incur charges of up to £5.25 daily, preferring to walk shorter distances over using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies optimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural tapestry, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their native countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End, thrives with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new accommodation in London, immerse yourself in the diverse and rich options available, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vitality of this extraordinary city.