Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although not a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired some knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a wide variety of housing options and lively communities. Students have abundant choices in the vicinity. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently organize viewings of apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to check potential living spaces online, along with amenities and public transport connections.
In my hunt for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make navigating and traveling between zones easy. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare policy. The high costs of living in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, allowing us to save significantly on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age range, a combination less common in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural diversity, providing various neighborhoods. Many international students look for elements reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing choices, discover cultural niches, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.