Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips, with both student accommodations and private rentals presenting features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can quickly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can leverage websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential residences online, assess amenities, and identify nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for a place to call home, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s top-notch transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Pricing for inter-zone travel on these modes varies based on distance and each train company’s fare model. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its prominent attractions, but sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly reduced our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and a similar age, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a significant challenge. London’s diverse ethnic communities form an integral aspect of its cultural identity, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a touch of their homeland within London. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional fashion shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and thriving music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, features a lively hub of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.