Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not be extensive, I have gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied accommodation alternatives but also for its communities. Students have an abundance of options readily available. Both student housing and private accommodations provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and identify public transport connections.
In my search for accommodations, I focused on renting a room in Central London to be near significant landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and inter-zonal travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as commuting between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made daily university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London boasts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending school with a friend enabled us to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies allows for efficient errand running, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The diverse ethnic communities of London are crucial to its cultural identity, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries here. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End is filled with multiple Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the richness and diversity of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.