Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not feel extensive, I have gained various perspectives throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not only due to its numerous accommodation choices but also its wide-ranging communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective lodgings online, including their features and proximity to public transportation.
While searching for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s top-notch transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk for shorter trips instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube network, reaching regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in central London stem from its significant attractions. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, greatly reducing our rental costs. I preferred to stay in intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which might have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as mere illustrations of neighborhood communities.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.