Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my stay in London. Although this may seem brief, I have gathered some observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing a wide array of living arrangements and varied communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both university housing and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and independent rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, verify available facilities, and evaluate accessibility to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, which includes the tube, buses, and train services, facilitates easy navigation between zones. I sought to lower travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 on a daily basis, so I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas that extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on the distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are largely due to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from different backgrounds and age ranges, which would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are an integral part of its cultural fabric, showcasing diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students in London look for ties to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural experiences. These are merely a few instances of community neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are dictated by personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural communities, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.