Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have marked nine months of residing in London. Though this duration isn’t particularly lengthy, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students enjoy an abundance of choices. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule appraisals of apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to survey prospective accommodations online, including the provided amenities and their nearness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement between zones. I sought to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal travel could amount to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Having access to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End showcases many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When embarking on the search for your new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.