Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy period, I have acquired some valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a diverse range of housing and dynamic communities. Students enjoy a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, verify amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, allows for easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can reach £5.25 daily. I preferred walking short distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structures of each train company. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential to me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to primary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These examples represent just a fraction of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation opportunities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.