Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although this is not an extended duration, I have gathered several observations. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its communities. Students have numerous alternatives available to them. Student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, including amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my pursuit of housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to be in proximity to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting cheaper for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The significant attractions in central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly reduce our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent; more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood is not simple. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These exemplify community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of the city’s housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.