Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of my stay in London. Though this period seems brief, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student residences and private accommodations feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transport options.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, vibrant social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize transportation expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network into zones that surround central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing model of each train operator. Central London features prime attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
For me, living near grocery stores was essential. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End thrives with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for residence in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, embrace the rich diversity of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this outstanding city has to offer.