Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear to be a lengthy period, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant city, not only because of its variety of housing choices but also due to its communities. Students have ample options available right at their doorstep. Student accommodation and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university less expensive. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate according to distance and the fare structures of individual train companies. The living costs in Central London are elevated due to its numerous attractions. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian community along with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, offers a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the rich diversity of its accommodation selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.