Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my stay in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gleaned some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied lodging alternatives but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer a range of choices, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, verify facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my home search, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The transport system in London, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures easy movement and travel across zones. I intended to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching locations outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare scheme. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we shared a room, which led to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass 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 conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural tapestry, presenting various neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a place to live in London, embrace the diversity and variety of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.