Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve celebrated nine months of residency in London. Though it may sound brief, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous selections available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, check amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes moving around and traveling between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London’s primary attractions drive up living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age range, a mix less likely to be found in private housing.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comforts of home within London. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community filled with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of neighborhood communities.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.